ICESCO–PNCU Joint Football Camp for Street Children (April 21–25, 2025 | Islamabad, Pakistan)

The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), in collaboration with the Pakistan National Commission for UNESCO (PNCU), will jointly organize a five-day initiative titled Rehabilitation of Street Children through Football” from April 21 to 25, 2025, in Islamabad, Pakistan.

 

Following a series of strategic meetings and consultations, ICESCO has agreed to support this rehabilitation initiative as part of its commitment to inclusive education, social integration, and youth empowerment. The project reflects Pakistan’s commitment as a Member State of ICESCO and will be implemented in line with the Charter of the National Commission for UNESCO.

Objective of the Event

 

The core objective of the initiative is to rehabilitate and socially integrate vulnerable and street children through structured sports-based learning, focusing on football as a tool for development. The camp promotes physical health, emotional well-being, teamwork, discipline, and personal development, alongside capacity-building sessions aimed at improving life skills and informal education.

 

Camp Overview

The camp will be held across three locations in Islamabad:

  • United Football Ground
  • The Palm Football Ground
  • National Skills University (NSU)
  • Around 90 children will participate in the camp, identified from marginalized urban areas and slums including:
    • Golar
    • Tarnol
    • Burma Town
    • Sohan
    • Iqbal Town
    • Bhara Kahu
    • Other underserved areas of Islamabad
  • Fieldwork and child identification were completed by PNCU Coordinators in collaboration with:
    • Basic Education Community Schools (BECS)
    • Local NGOs
    • Community representatives
  • The camp will offer:
    • Free medical check-ups for all participating children.
    • Support for school enrollment
    • Active involvement of local NGOs and community organizations to support implementation and follow-up.
    • Mentorship and psychosocial support by trained professionals and educators.
    • Capacity-building sessions to enhance life skills and self-confidence.
    • Motivational and awareness activities to inspire positive behavior and goal-setting.
    • Physical education and football training to encourage teamwork, discipline, and healthy lifestyles.