Training on the Sport for Development (S4D) methodology brought together 22 teachers from across the Western Balkans in Tirana last week. During the five-day training, teachers had the opportunity to learn more about the theoretical approach of S4D, as well as to participate in S4D activities and gain firsthand experience of how this methodology can be used to address important social topics such as gender equality, inclusion, social cohesion, and reconciliation.
The teachers came from 12 secondary schools that are among more than a hundred schools participating in the RYCO Superschools exchange programme this year. What sets these schools apart from other Superschools participants is their focus on the Sport for Development. This is a fun, accessible, and cost-effective, yet highly efficient tool that includes not only play and physical activity, but also reflection. The training equipped teachers with practical skills and knowledge that they can apply not only during the exchanges but in their future work with students as well.
Among the 12 participating schools is “Ali Demi” High School from Vlora. Endri Lagji, a physical education teacher with 11 years of experience, shared:
“I believe that being a teacher is a great mission. I have previously used Sport for Development (S4D) with my students, as I was part of an earlier project. The S4D training is very different from the traditional model of teaching in schools. The methodology used in S4D is contemporary and highly effective for education, personal development, and group interaction among students.”
Similar reflections were shared by participants from across the region. From Montenegro, Olivera Lučić, a teacher with 26 years of experience from the Secondary Vocational Economic-Catering School in Nikšić, emphasized the value of the training, noting:
“Participation in this training is an important professional development opportunity for me. It allows me to improve existing knowledge, acquire new tools for higher-quality application of sport in educational and developmental activities, and exchange experiences with colleagues.”
About the RYCO Superschools Programme
RYCO Superschools is a school exchange programme in the WB6 region, aiming to support peacebuilding and reconciliation processes, as well as intercultural learning and dialogue among schools, students, and their communities. The programme is part of a multi-donor project, co-financed by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) in cooperation with RYCO.