The third edition was inaugurated at the Changlimithang Football Stadium by BFF President Dasho Ugen Tsechup and attended by several dignitaries, including executive committee members of the Federation and officials of Bhutan’s Department of Education.

 

The five-day initiative brought together as many as 120 children from schools across remote villages in Bhutan, namely Dukti Primary School (Trashiyangtse), Retey Primary School (Sarpang), Pangthang Primary School (Mongar), Tradijong Primary School (Zhemgang) and Kikhar Primary School (Zhemgang).

 

During the programme, the children participated in activities designed to provide holistic development opportunities in a safe, inclusive and engaging environment, which ranged from football drills and small-sided games to recreational visits to nearby landmarks such as the Motithang Takin Preserve, Buddha Point and the Paro International Airport.

Amongst the most notable highlights was an informative seminar delivered by the BFF’s Child Safeguarding Officer, who educated the participants on the importance of safety both on and off the field, ensuring that young players understand their rights and responsibilities in maintaining a secure environment.

 

Moreover, in recognition of the challenges faced by the schools owing to their isolated locales, the programme sought to devise football-driven activities that offer a combination of skill development and creativity, while also being educational, fostering a spirit of teamwork and inclusivity among the young boys and girls.

 

With the programme’s philosophy being deeply rooted in harnessing the power of the beautiful game to usher positive change in society, #BridgingTheGap continues to embody the ADAF’s overarching motto of “Football Cares”.