Nicosia, Cyprus. The ministry of education and the Cyprus Football Association (CFA) signed a four-year memorandum of cooperation on Monday to introduce football in high schools. The initiative is part of the UEFA-supported Grassroots Football in Schools programme.
Agreement and signatories
The memorandum was signed by Education Minister Athena Michaelidou and CFA president Charis Loizides.
Support for schools and teacher training
Under the agreement, the CFA will provide expertise, training and sports equipment to gymnasiums. Physical education teachers will receive training leading to a Grassroots D coaching licence.
School activities and coaching
Football days and practical sessions will be organised in schools and delivered by CFA coaches.
Aims and values
The ministry said the initiative aims to integrate sport and education, promoting values such as respect, teamwork, discipline and fair play. Michaelidou said football can help shape character and social skills while encouraging healthy lifestyles.
Focus on unity and violence prevention
Michaelidou said sport must remain a unifying force and not a source of division, adding that the programme promotes zero tolerance for violence and focuses on prevention and education.
Shared goals
Both sides said the initiative aims to build a new generation of students who respect opponents, officials and the spirit of sport, while developing strong character and social responsibility.
How do you think introducing football in schools could influence students’ attitudes toward respect and fair play?