Sport for Development (S4D): Plan, Act, Grow

About the Course

Sport has long been a powerful social connector, but using it intentionally as a tool for development is a relatively recent phenomenon. Today, governments, NGOs, sports federations and other stakeholders are recognizing its potential to inspire communities, engage youth and address pressing social and developmental challenges. This course offers an in-depth overview to S4D, current global policies and key actors in the field. It also provides a foundation for designing and implementing effective S4D programmes that use sport to tackle social and developmental issues.

Objectives of the Course

• Explain what Sport for Development (S4D) encompasses and how its impact aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Describe the landscape of the S4D sector, including key policies and strategies.
• Develop knowledge and capacity to design and implement S4D programmes.
• Understand how gender norms are perpetuated in sport and how S4D can drive change.
• Identify the funding landscape and advocacy strategies relevant to S4D.

Who is this Course for?

This course has been designed for practitioners, development sector professionals, CSR professionals, government officials, policy makers, social workers, sports trainers and managers as well as researchers who have limited insight into S4D, but are interested in building their knowledge and capacity to integrate S4D approaches within their overall development frameworks.

Learning Approach

This course offers participants a flexible, self-paced learning structure that takes a total of 50 hours to complete. It combines text-based modules with case studies, infographics, video and audio learning from experts, and links to additional readings for those interested. Learners are guided step-by-step through concepts, policies and practical tools to plan, act and grow S4D initiatives. A stable internet connection is recommended to effectively access all course components.

People Behind the Course

Course Authors

• Shaurya Arun, Sports Marketing Expert
• Rijul Sharda, Sport Management Expert

Course Reviewers

• Rohan Pereira, Team Lead: Projects & Partnerships, Pro Sport Development
• Isha Saxena, Consultant, Pro Sport Development

Subject Matter Experts

• Suheil Farrell Tandon, Director-Founder, Pro Sport Development
• Kaustuv Kanti Bandyopadhyay, Director, Participatory Research in Asia