Federer targets quality education for 150 000 children

Tennis superstar Rodger Federer reaffirmed his commitment to providing quality preschool education to children in Malawi.

Federer said this today at the launch of the Lundu Community Based Childcare Center in Area 25, Lilongwe.

The center is among the 210 CBCCs that the Rodger Federer Foundation has constructed in the country through ActionAid Malawi

Through the Rodger Federer Foundation, the tennis star has invested $13 million (K6.5 billion) in early childhood development.

“We have proven that early child childhood education does make a difference. Children show higher readiness for school and their performance at primary school is better that that of children without early education,” Federer said.

He added that: Our goal is to grow and reach out to a minimum of 150 000 children and ensure they have better quality preschool education.”

His hope is that the center at Lundu will not only educate children but also provide nutritious food and improve their life skills and social behaviour.

Before the launch Federer had a 30 minute meeting with vice president Saulos Chilima where he also assured government of continued support.

‘We must all do our best in order to give children a better future because children represent the future. That is why my Foundation invests in young children in Southern Africa and Malawi in particular,” he said.

While appreciating the good work Federer is doing, Chilima also told the tennis legend that he is followed closely in his sports prowess by people in Malawi.

He promised to come back next time with his family.

“The president is your number one fan and I am your number two fan. We always watch and follow your games. I am not just saying this because you are here. We watched all your games at Wimbledon. Unfortunately Djokovic seems to be a continuous headache, so we have to find something to stop him at the US Open,” said Chilima.

Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare Patricia Kaliati who accompanied Federer to Area 25 also expressed government gratitude to the tennis superstar for the noble charity works.

“Through your work you are transforming these children’s lives. You are shaping their future in a positive. As government we are very appreciative,” said Kaliati.

Federer who arrived in the country on Sunday has today left for South Africa.