New Initiative to Benefit Hundreds of South African Children

Photo Credit: Sesame Workshop International South Africa

The expanded Bond Through Play Initiative will bring playful learning, caregiver support and inclusive activities to underserved communities.

Johannesburg, South Africa (29 July 2026)- Hundreds of young children across South Africa will soon have more opportunities to learn, play and grow, thanks to a new initiative that combines education with the joy of movement and sport.

Sesame Workshop International South Africa has secured support from the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund to expand its Bond Through Play Initiative, a programme expected to reach more than 800 children in underserved communities.

Rather than focusing on competition, the initiative uses soccer and structured play as tools to help children between the ages of three and eight develop important life skills, build confidence and strengthen their readiness for school.

The programme also places a strong emphasis on families, encouraging parents and caregivers to become more involved in their children’s learning through play.

Mari Payne, Deputy Managing Director and Senior Director Education and Programs at Sesame Workshop International South Africa was appreciative of this gesture.

“Through this generous grant, we will expand our successful Bond Through Play Initiative, building on our established Play to Learn methodology, to combine playful learning, educator support, caregiver engagement and educational media, to improve school readiness and positive developmental outcomes for children in underserved communities.”

The initiative has already made a meaningful impact. A nationwide digital campaign reached millions of South Africans and earned international recognition, including a People’s Voice Webby Award in 2025 and a Bookmark Award for its creative use of influencers.

The next phase will build on that momentum by placing even greater emphasis on inclusion.

Thabo Shange says they are focusing on increasing inclusion.

“We’re energised by the opportunity to bring this next chapter to life. It will place a deliberate focus on increasing the participation of young girls, championing inclusive play, and ensuring children with disabilities and diverse learning needs can learn, play and thrive alongside their peers.”

Set to launch in the final quarter of 2026, the expanded programme will include Takalani Sesame content, educator training, caregiver workshops, community play festivals and activities that promote social and emotional learning.