Every child deserves the opportunity to participate, develop their potential, and experience the joy of sport, regardless of gender.

As part of the Goals for Good initiative, the AFC Dream Asia Foundation and ASA Foundation conducted a school visit at SDN Cilandak Timur 01 Pagi, focusing on gender inclusion and the role of football in creating a more equitable and supportive learning environment.

During the visit, 30 students, including 14 girls, were observed as part of our ongoing efforts to understand how inclusive football activities can encourage equal participation and meaningful engagement among boys and girls.

The session emphasized an important principle: football should never be defined by gender, but by the opportunities it creates for everyone.

By encouraging boys and girls to participate in shared sporting activities, the programme aims to challenge traditional gender stereotypes, strengthen teamwork, and foster mutual respect. These experiences can help children recognize that leadership, confidence, and sporting ability are not determined by whether they are a boy or a girl.

Beyond the football field, gender-inclusive approaches to sport play an important role in shaping how young people interact, collaborate, and value one another. When every child is encouraged to contribute, sport becomes more than a physical activity. It becomes a platform for learning about fairness, respect, and belonging.

Through Goals for Good, we remain committed to supporting teachers and schools in creating inclusive sporting environments where every child has an equal opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.

Because meaningful gender inclusion begins when every child is given the same opportunity to step onto the field, have their voice heard, and be part of the game. 

Together, we can build a generation that sees football not as a game for boys or girls, but as a game for everyone.