Canada announces funding to expand play-based education for children in developing countries
News release
June 11, 2026 - Toronto, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada
The Honourable Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development), today announced that Canada is committing $5 million in funding over four years to Right To Play International to help improve access to quality basic education for children and youths in vulnerable regions around the world.
Announced on the International Day of Play and on the eve of the first FIFA World Cup 2026™ match in Canada, this investment reflects Canada’s commitment to advancing innovative approaches to education and child development through sport and play.
This funding will support the project No Child on the Sidelines, which is implemented by Right To Play International in collaboration with Global Citizen. It is also aligned with the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund campaign to mobilize US$100 million for education and sports-based learning globally. The initiative will strengthen locally led, play- and sport-based education programming that promotes quality learning and the well-being of children and youths in underserved communities.
This effort will:
- bring play and sports-based learning to children across Africa, the Middle East and South Asia—including those affected by conflict, displacement and crisis
- invest in local leadership through subgrants to civil society organizations to scale and sustain community-based programming that supports children’s learning, protection and well-being while strengthening their collective voice through a global network
The program is expected to reach around 60,000 children and youths, as well as coaches, teachers and community facilitators.
Canada’s investment will be leveraged through the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund campaign to mobilize additional financing and partnerships to expand access to quality education and sport-based programming for children and youths worldwide.
Secretary of State Sarai will highlight this announcement this evening at Right To Play’s Heroes Gala in Toronto, Ontario.
Quotes
“Canada recognizes the power of sport and play as important tools for learning, inclusion and development. Yet, many children around the world are denied the chance to learn, grow and thrive. Through this partnership with Right To Play, and aligned with the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund campaign, Canada is helping more children and youths who face the greatest challenges get access to quality education and the opportunity to reach their full potential.”
- Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development)
Quick facts
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Right To Play International is a Toronto-based humanitarian organization that aims to protect, educate and empower children to rise above adversity by using the power of sport and play.
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Children around the world face growing barriers to play due to conflict, poverty, displacement, gender inequality and social exclusion.
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Play can support children’s well-being by helping them cope with stress, trauma and emotional challenges, particularly in crisis contexts.
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The International Day of Play highlights that play is a fundamental right and essential to children’s development, learning and well-being.
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Contacts
Right To Play International
NoChildonSidelines@righttoplay.com
Media Relations Office
Global Affairs Canada
media@international.gc.ca
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