The AFC-UNHCR Programme, which is supported by the AFC Dream Asia Foundation in partnership with the Rohingya Education Centre (JREC), the United Nations High Commission For Refugees (UNHCR) and Football Association of Malaysia (FAM), underlines the Asian Football Confederation’s (AFC) Vision and Mission to use the sport as a tool for social development.

And with various activities organised for the Rohingya children, the AFC-FAM-UNHCR-JREC Rohingya Education Centre Social Responsibility Programme brought joy to the children while also providing them with education and knowledge through the power of football.

Speaking at the first meeting of the AFC’s Social Responsibility (SR) Committee for the cycle 2019-2023 – chaired by AFC Vice President Zaw Zaw – Shaikh Salman said: “Unfortunately, there are many people in Asia who are living in difficult circumstances.

“The AFC believes that football can not only be a sport, but also a force to bring good and hope to so many people. We have carried out a lot of projects so far – many providing humanitarian aid – but we can still do more.

“Through the AFC Dream Asia Foundation, we know that football can make a difference and bring a positive change to people across the Continent."

In his opening speech, AFC Social Responsibility Committee Chairman, Mr. Zaw Zaw said: “The AFC has always placed significant emphasis on using football as an enabler for social development. Asia is a vast Continent with its unique set of challenges and by bringing everyone together, this conference aims to increase our chances for success.

“Across the Continent, we are seeing the incredible impact of football to inspire hope not only with the AFC’s activities and programmes, but through the concerted efforts of all our stakeholders - our Member Associations, NGO, as well as corporate partners.

“Our partnership is stronger than ever, and we are in the best possible position to fulfil our purpose to empower communities and ensure the game continues to create a meaningful legacy on those who need it the most.”

The three worthy winners, who were chosen from a record 27 strong applicants this year, will receive USD$10,000, enabling them to bolster their social responsibility programmes alongside the AFC.

The three categories were established in 2018 to recognise the commitment and expanding efforts of the AFC Member Associations who continue to use football as a catalyst for social development. The three Member Associations will each be rewarded with USD $15,000 for future social responsibility projects in conjunction with the AFC.

Held in conjunction with the ongoing AFC U-16 Women’s Championship Thailand 2019, the objective of the seminar was to expand the reach of the new FIFA Child Safeguarding Programme and Toolkit – FIFA Guardians - a major initiative launched by the world governing body in July this year aimed at assisting Member Associations and Confederations around the world to introduce stronger child safeguarding measures in football.

Leading the way in the Inspiring Member Associations category, which was introduced in 2018, are the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran, Japan Football Association, Football Association of Malaysia, Uzbekistan Football Association and the Chinese Football Association.

Bangladesh Football Federation, Hong Kong Football Association, Jordan Football Association, Myanmar Football Federation and the Football Association of Singapore have submitted their nominations for the Developing category.

Guam Football Association, Mongolian Football Federation and the Palestine Football Association complete the line-up in the Aspiring category.