The new content was launched this year extending the programme out to 34 sessions while continuing to focus on the promotion and awareness of gender equality, child protection, health and social inclusion.
Hosted by the Football Federation Samoa in association with the Ministry of Education, Sports and Culture at Marist, Vailoa Palauli, the children participated in activities where the key messages of the programme were incorporated into the objectives of the game.
Half of the children and staff involved were female, knocking down the barrier to gender equality – an issue that is prevelant around the Pacific.
Social inclusion was encouraged and children and volunteers with special needs were acknowledged during the closing ceremony as the message of inclusion for one and all, irrespective of race, gender, religion or socio-economic background, was highlighted.
FFS Just Play Project Manager Lynette Laumea Faaiuaso has seen the positive impact of the programme during her time with Just Play and says for some its as simple as receiving the message to bring “nius” to the festival as opposed to fizzy drinks.
“The children have learn through playing football and participating in the Just Play Programme that making good choices and leading a healthy lifestyle is beneficial,” she says.
“I’d like to acknowledge the Just Play Programme partners – UNICEF, Football Federation Australia, AusAID, the Australian Government, the Australian Sports Commission, UEFA and OFC for funding this programme, and for their commitment to social change within the Pacific.”
Since it’s inception in 2009 Just Play has contributed to the improvement of Pacific Island children’s lives through the implementation of structured football-related activities within schools and communities.
The refreshed programme format was rolled out in April 2014 and schools within the Savai’i Sisifo District were among the first to try out the new activities. There were seven participating schools including Tafua, Palauli, Satupaitea, Gataivai, Gautavai, Puleia, and Sili Primary Schools.
For more on Samoan football go to www.footballsamoa.ws

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