Youth Sport Initiative
Stellenbosch University believes that it is a true builder of hope on the African continent, and that the institution's strengths and expertise can be utilised in order to take on some of the world's toughest challenges. In this regard the University's HOPE Project represents the vehicle through which these knowledge resources are mobilised at the service of human need.
This is done through a number of initiatives designed to address particular challenges. One such project is the Youth Sports Initiative (YSI), which focuses on physical and psychological wellbeing through sport. The project is driven by the Stellenbosch University Sport Performance Institute (SUSPI), with valuable assistance from Maties Sport and the Centre for Human Performance Sciences.
Football plays a central role within this initiative, and the project itself comprises a new football centre, a proposed football academy, as well as an after-school programme. The latter aims to develop local learners through innovative intervention, such as using play and sport to teach mathematics, literacy and life skills. The programme commenced early in 2010, with Grade 3 learners from nine different Stellenbosch schools participating in the initiative. In this regard three specific areas are addressed for the learners, namely academics, life skills and sport.
Football was a central focus throughout 2010, with the coaching component having been scientifically designed by the Stellenbosch University Sport Performance Institute (SUSPI) to cater for the specific needs of this age group. On the academic side the learners were assisted with their daily homework, after which they engaged in activities designed to enhance both numeracy and literacy skills. Furthermore, topics for the life skills component were chosen based on the relevant needs within the local community.
Strategic partnerships have also been forged around the programme. In this regard "Stars of Tomorrow" - an award-winning social responsibility organisation based in Germany - have come on board to assist with funding. In addition, researchers from Humboldt University in Germany will assist in evaluating the overall impact of the programme.
In 2011 the programme will expand to include Grade 4 learners, while also absorbing a new intake of Grade 3 learners from the surrounding areas. It is hoped that this project will go from strength to strength, thereby further assisting in establishing Stellenbosch University as a beacon of hope both regionally and nationally.
For more information regarding this and other Stellenbosch University projects, visit www.thehopeproject.co.za.
