Press Release 19 September 2011

On Saturday 17 September 2011 HRH the Earl of Wessex launched the International Inspiration programme at a festival of Olympic sports in Kyadondo rugby grounds in Uganda. Over 300 teachers and students joined leading figures in the education and sports world of Uganda to celebrate the Olympic spirit and get the programme under way.

International Inspiration is London 2012’s international sports legacy programme and aims to enrich the lives of 12 million children in 20 countries around the world through high-quality and inclusive physical education, sport and play.

The programme is bringing to life London 2012’s promise to reach young people all around the world and connect them to the inspirational power of the Games so they are inspired to choose sport.

International Inspiration in Uganda will support delivery of the National Development Plan by building on ongoing physical education, sport and play activities and projects. It will widen access for children and young people to participate and realise their full potential in high-quality and inclusive PE and sports in schools and communities additionally focusing on girls, marginalised children and those with special needs. The programme will also enhance the role and use of traditional games in schools and communities to promote Uganda culture among children and young people.

This is the first time in the history of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games that an international legacy programme on this scale has been conceived and implemented. International Inspiration has already reached 12 million children in 17 countries from Azerbaijan to Zambia

The programme is supported by a partnership of organisations including UK Sport, UNICEF and the British Council, as well as by the Youth Sport Trust, the UK Government’s Department for International Development and Department of Culture, Media and Sport, the English Premier League, the British Olympic Association, the British Paralympic Association and private donors.