July 25 – The AFC, in collaboration with the United Nations’ (UN) Football For the Goals initiative (FFTG), yesterday completed a workshop in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, designed “to clear a path” to increased collaboration over the use of football to drive social change.
The AFC became a member of the FFTG in October 2022, recognising the opportunity to become a leading force in sustainability transformation within the global football community.
AFC General Secretary Datuk Seri Windsor John, in his opening remarks at the workshop, said: “Over the years, the Confederation has remained steadfast in its efforts to leverage football as a positive tool.
“Through our various initiatives, especially those driven by the AFC Dream Asia Foundation (ADAF), we have been able to create more inclusive and sustainable ecosystems across Asia, and now our efforts are being further amplified as we work alongside our colleagues from the FFTG.”
The workshop focussed on the core principles of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and how they can be integrated into the AFC’s organisational strategy.
This included multiple discussion on how they can be promoted through the AFC’s Member Associations (MAs) and Regional Associations (RAs) and the opportunities for capacity-building and knowledge-sharing programmes.
The development of practical tools for the implementation of the FFTG’s principles, which included a proposal to develop an AFC-FFTG handbook, and the strengthening the confederation’s brand as a global agent of change through a close partnership with the UN, were also discussed.
UN Deputy Director and Chief of Partnerships and Global Engagement Rob Skinner said: “Football has been recognised by the UN General Assembly for its global reach and ability to make significant impacts in various spheres, including the Sustainable Development Goals and there is massive potential for us to work together with the football community to make a tangible difference in our societies.
“The AFC already has a number of initiatives in place, especially through the ADAF, and the FFTG is eager to lend its support to further the cause and strengthen the impact of these efforts in promoting sustainable development and social change across the Continent.”
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