The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), in collaboration with FIFA and in partnership with the Ministry of Basic and Senior Secondary School Education, the Ministry of Sport, and the National Sports Authority (NSA), marked a significant milestone on Wednesday, February 7th, with the launch of the FIFA Football for Schools (F4S) program at the Wusum Field in Makeni.

This initiative aims to integrate football into the educational curriculum, fostering the holistic development of students across Sierra Leone. The program’s launch signifies a concerted effort to promote sports participation and education simultaneously, aligning with FIFA’s global agenda to leverage football as a tool for social change and community development.

The ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, including representatives from the SLFA, FIFA, government ministries, school officials, and members of the local community. Amidst a backdrop of enthusiasm and anticipation, speeches were delivered, highlighting the importance of sports in education and the potential impact of the F4S program on the nation’s youth.

Speaking at the event, SLFA officials expressed gratitude for FIFA’s support and emphasized their commitment to ensuring the program’s success. They underscored the role of football in promoting values such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience, which are essential for academic and personal success.

Furthermore, government representatives reiterated their endorsement of the initiative, emphasizing its alignment with national educational objectives and its potential to enhance youth engagement and participation in sports at the grassroots level.

The launch ceremony featured various activities, including football matches, skills clinics, and interactive sessions aimed at engaging students and promoting active participation in the program. Attendees were encouraged to embrace the values of fair play, respect, and inclusivity, which form the foundation of FIFA’s Football for Schools initiative.

As the F4S program takes root in Sierra Leone, its organizers remain optimistic about its potential to transform lives, empower communities, and contribute to the country’s overall development agenda. With ongoing support from FIFA and other partners, the program is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of thousands of students across the nation.