A new soccer academy is using the sport to fight vandalism and keep kids in school. Play Soccer Malawi, led by FIFA Coach Educator Patricio Kulemeka, is holding trials for children under twelve near Bingu National Stadium. Kulemeka said he started the program after seeing rising social problems like absenteeism and property damage in the surrounding communities, aiming to use football to teach discipline and morals while developing modern skills. The academy aligns with FIFA’s Football for Goals and UN sustainability targets, incorporating educational quizzes and environmental lessons on waste management.
The long-term plan is a ten-year development project to produce skilled Malawian footballers by 2036, while also creating responsible citizens. Trials are set for Tuesday morning at the stadium, with participants told to bring their own gear. Kulemeka also called for volunteer coaches with a FAM D Licence to help and revealed plans to expand similar academies across other Lilongwe communities. The initiative explicitly tries to tackle social issues by blending sport with classroom learning and environmental stewardship, targeting youth development on and off the pitch.
The long-term plan is a ten-year development project to produce skilled Malawian footballers by 2036, while also creating responsible citizens. Trials are set for Tuesday morning at the stadium, with participants told to bring their own gear. Kulemeka also called for volunteer coaches with a FAM D Licence to help and revealed plans to expand similar academies across other Lilongwe communities. The initiative explicitly tries to tackle social issues by blending sport with classroom learning and environmental stewardship, targeting youth development on and off the pitch.
