By Shaffie A Mtambo
The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has partnered with the Malawi Schools Sports Association (MASSA) to revive schools football in the country.
The partnership it’s for five years with aims to bring back structured youth football development programs in schools.
FAM President Fleetwood Haiya emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating that it will enhance platforms at the grassroots level, which is essential for developing quality players.
He also acknowledged that the lack of collaboration between FAM and schools in the past has contributed to the decline of Malawi’s football standards.
The partnership has several key objectives, including eliminating age cheating in football, improving coordination and knowledge sharing, preventing school dropouts, and protecting young players from abuse.
FAM and MASSA will work together to ensure that players’ ages are accurately verified, enhance the implementation of football development programs, use football as a tool to encourage students to remain in school.
To achieve these objectives, FAM and MASSA have committed to undertaking specific roles. FAM will provide technical support, equipment, and funding for schools football programs.
While MASSA will identify players for U15 and U17 teams in partnership with other stakeholders, monitor players during the school calendar season, and screen the ages of players in partnership with FAM and other organizations.
This partnership marks a significant step forward for Malawi’s football development, and its success will depend on the effective collaboration between FAM, MASSA, and other stakeholders.
FAM President Fleetwood Haiya praised MASSA President Blackson Malamula for his role in making the partnership a reality.
Malamula also expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating that it has the potential to bear significant results if well executed.
The partnership is part of FAM’s overall strategy to transform Malawi’s football and contribute to the country’s development goals.
