BY JOY OFASIA
A training on the Just Play emergency preparedness program was carried out for seven schools in Honiara last week at the Solomon Islands National Sports Institution.
This program is part of ongoing efforts to keep children safe and informed through fun and active learning across the country. It shows how sport can save lives in communities. The Just Play emergency preparedness training was carried out over three days and is expected to continue in more schools.
Speaking to RAW SPORTS, Social Responsibility Manager, Maria Rarawa said the program aims to educate teachers to become coaches in their schools and help students prepare for natural disasters.
She said the Just Play program is important because it teaches children in classrooms using football to deliver simple safety messages.
“It is easy for children to learn when they play,” she said. “We use football to share messages about disasters in a fun way.”
Rarawa said the training comes at the right time as the country is facing Cyclone Malia during the cyclone season from November to April.
Photo credit @ OFC Just Play.
“We must always be ready,” she said. “Our country, like other Pacific nations, needs to prepare early for natural disasters.”
Anthony Agiomea, a teacher from Chung Wah School, said the training is important because it combines sports with learning.
“It is not only about playing,” he said. “We also pass important messages to students about staying safe.”
Rachel Osika Afu from Vura Community High School said students need to understand and be trained so they can respond well during disasters.
She said the program helps build confidence and awareness among young people.
Photo credit @ OFC Just Play
Rarawa also highlighted that about 70 percent of participants were women, showing strong female involvement in sports and community work.
“I am happy to see many women stepping forward to become coaches and support schools,” she said.
