Where Oxfam Unwrapped is promoting gender equality in countries like Ghana, we use footballs to ‘achieve our goals’ - as well lots of other school equipment. Schools are where the adults of tomorrow will learn about equality, and nothing is more attractive to kids than organised sports!
Since our programme in Ghana got to work, local women and men have been encouraged to get involved in the running of their community schools and take a keen interest in the education of their children – especially the girls! Now communities have schools they can be proud of, and the kids are flocking to learn their way to a better future – and have a good time playing football and basketball with their mates.
As well as purchasing footballs and volleyball nets, we bought roofing sheets for renovating classrooms and recreational facilities, plus school uniforms, textbooks and reading materials, trained teachers and lobbied the government to provide kids with the quality education they deserved. Top marks!