The Just Play sport for development programme is returning to Papua New Guinea after a three-year absence, with the experienced Christine Wamala appointed to head up operations.
Wamala, who is a qualified social worker, brings with her 35 years of experience in social responsibility and empowerment project delivery.
As the Oceania Football Confederation’s flagship social responsibility programme, Just Play promotes physical activity for primary-school aged children while encouraging community involvement and healthy living.
The programme is funded by Australian Aid funding, in partnership with Team Up – the Australian Government’s sport for development programme in the Asia Pacific.
OFC Head of Social Responsibility Michael Armstrong said it was a huge boost to have Papua New Guinea joining other OFC Member Associations in rolling out Just Play.
“We are very excited to be relaunching Just Play in Papua New Guinea next year and to be providing a platform for children to engage in fun football activities, while also learning important lessons to support healthy development,” Armstrong said.
“I am glad to welcome Christine into the Just Play family too. She has already provided valuable contributions and a fresh perspective at the Annual Social Responsibility meeting held last week.
“We are grateful to have had the support and commitment from PNGFA to help facilitate the reintroduction of the programme.”
Former PNG Just Play Manager, turned PNGFA Coach Educator, Margaret Aka said it was wonderful to have Just Play back in the country.
“It is a very good programme for kids. Some of the kids that went through Just Play previously have become volunteers in the programme and will continue to give back,” Aka said.