Education

“The playful activities lead by the facilitator are simply amazing. They teach children knowledge as well as life skills.”

Ms. Sharmila, a mother involved in SA4D’s “Move & Improve” project in India.

What is SA4D doing?

SA4D contributes to inclusive and quality education for all by creating learner-centred educational opportunities that support the holistic development of disadvantaged children and youth. Our early childhood education programmes aim to improve school readiness. Through playful learning methods that stimulate cognitive, social, emotional and physical development, children are better prepared to entre and complete primary education. SA4D continues to support children throughout basic education by promoting the use of sport and play based teaching methods to enhance literacy, numeracy and other academic skills, at the same time fostering life skills and self-sufficiency. This approach improves quality of teaching and creates protective and supportive spaces where students can explore, connect, enjoy and stay motivated to learn, ultimately increasing school attendance and retention.

How is SA4D doing this?

SA4D recognises the benefits of sport and play in education, using them as tools for interactive and experiential learning. In collaboration with our implementing partners, we design context-specific programmes, develop curricula and train teachers to incorporate structured games into their daily classroom activities. Each game aims to reach specific and age-appropriate learning objectives. For instance, when part of a race, maths questions become fun, while collaborative exercises teach children how to deal with conflicts in a peaceful way, to cope with defeat, to work in teams and express themselves confidently. Depending on the needs, we supplement our programmes with activities such as basic health care services, daily meals or school gardens to ensure proper nutrition; infrastructure renovations, such as bathrooms, classrooms or outdoor spaces for a healthy, safe and welcoming environment. SA4D also includes tutoring for students who need additional support to bridge the gaps. Finally, families and communities are encouraged to become active partners in the educational process. Parental education and mothers’ groups help to reinforce the value of education, ensuring its benefits extend beyond the classroom. This aligns with the holistic nature of SA4D projects, which cover multiple focus areas to create more thorough and lasting solutions.

Why is SA4D doing this?

Everyone has the right to inclusive and equitable quality education. Early childhood education lays the foundation for lifelong success, enabling children to flourish and reach their full potential. Building on this foundation, basic education unlocks opportunities for continued learning and has the power to drive social change. Yet, too many children, especially girls, remain out of school or drop out prematurely, due to poverty, discrimination, and lack of awareness on the importance of education. This is compounded by inadequate education systems, with insufficiently qualified teachers, outdated teaching methods, overcrowded classrooms, and poor infrastructures. The first six years of life can be critical in shaping a person’s future. Children without proper care and schooling face lifelong disadvantages that are difficult to overcome. They are more vulnerable to exploitation such as child labour and early marriage. Conversely, children who are supported during this significant period of brain development are healthier, more successful in school, have better career prospects and play more active roles in society.