Special needs teacher using Football For Schools program to grow learners' passion for the game

Trainers get instructed during the ongoing FIFA Football For Schools program in Kakamega. Photo credit: FKF

FOOTBALL Special needs teacher using Football For Schools program to grow learners' passion for the game

Mark Kinyanjui 09:15 - 30.07.2023

The Kilifi-based trainer says the program will help him gain the knowledge to develop his student's football skill levels and help them realize their passion for the game despite being mentally handicapped..

For special needs primary school teacher Thoya Samson from Kilfii, he has the intention to use the game to grow the interest of his students in football despite being mentally handicapped 

Samson, who is one of the beneficiaries of the FIFA program which was launched in Kenya on Friday, in Kakamega county, says the program will help elevate the skill levels of his students while also developing their passion for the game despite being handicapped..

“Our students have special needs since they are mentally handicapped and it is a challenge for us as their teachers to motivate them to attend school,” Samson said.

“Their interest to come to school is a major challenge and we need to have a motivating factor which will make them feel happy to flock to school where they will get an education, regardless of their incapacitation. 

“ This football training program is a good pathway for the children to come to school with the knowledge that they will have an opportunity to be taught good football.”

The F4S mobile app, which was recently launched in the country, is meant to be used by educators to manage training sessions with their students.

The app equips trainers with the necessary knowledge and skills required to help give impact quality football education onto their students. Samson admits the app will help him handle his pupils better.

“Through our instructors here, I have learnt many skills and with the Football For Schools mobile App, which has been introduced in Kenya, I will now be able to handle my pupils better and by teaching them football skills.

“ I will be able to cultivate a football culture in them which can only be achieved at school so I will have my pupils coming to school everyday.” 

The Football For Schools Program is set to end on Sunday, July 29 2023.