To implement our programs and to promote sport as a tool for social change, Sport In Action organizes and hosts a number of activities.

SPORTS FESTIVALS & TOURNAMENTS

Sports festivals and tournaments are organised in all of our 24 districts. It enables trained teachers and coaches to practice the organisation and facilitation skills for integrated sport that they have learned in workshops and clinics. It also provides an arena whereby children and youth can participate in competitive sport and play with those who they do not usually participate with. Festivals for the participation of all members of society are also used as a means to raise funds for sports equipment at our project sites and to break down misplaced social stigma such as discrimination towards children with disabilities and people living with HIV & AIDS. The inclusion of marginalised and vulnerable members of society in such events is groundbreaking, changing social attitudes and dramatically impacting people’s lives.

PROVISION OF SPORTS EQUIPMENT

The provision of safe and properly-aged sports equipment for all children and youth is vital if they are to experience fully the joy and lessons acquired through participation in sports. In target areas where we have inadequate supplies of sports equipment we make more use of traditional, fun and movement games as these require often little or no equipment. We also hold events throughout the year to fundraise for the purchase of sports equipment as well as receiving equipment from international partners including the Norwegian Olympic Committee, the International Alliance for Youth Sport, the Institute of Sport and Recreation Management, Durham University and Northumbria University.

PARENTS AND TEACHERS DISCUSSION FORUM

Often parents, teachers and other stakeholders do not understand the need for participation in sport for a child’s development. They tend to regard academic achievements and home responsibilities as more important, seeing sport as a luxury that is not necessary for progression in life. It is also common for insufficient understanding of child rights amongst these duty bearers.   Through discussion forums therefore parents and teachers as well as other stakeholders such as local authorities, are educated on health and life skills, child rights, gender equality and the valuable lessons that their children acquire through sport including leadership, justice and determination.   Fostering feelings of support and ownership amongst stakeholders is important for the success of the project as it leads to parents allowing their children to participate in sports activities and increased understanding of child rights contributes to the creation of child-friendly environments at home and school. As progress among parents is achieved we encourage children to participate in the same forums, presenting their experiences, stories and sharing ideas.