The EU funded SKILLS4CHANGE project held its first Full Partner Meeting on the 17 and 18 March 2026 in Malta. Hosted by SportMalta, Project Coordinator, the meeting brought together partners from across Europe to build relationships, agree the ambitious work programme, and plan the first tasks related to the research phase of the project.
Building a strong foundation
The meeting opened with a welcome from the host organisation SportMalta and an ice-breaker session to help build connections – this was important as many of the partners are working together for the first time.
The partners received an overview of the SKILLS4CHANGE project, which focuses on creating practical learning tools and resources that respond to real sector needs. It will strengthen skills and capacity within sport for development.
An introduction was given to the project’s structure, which is divided into four phases:
- Training Needs Analysis
- E-learning development,
- Self-Reflection Tool
- Impact and Sustainability.
Early discussions highlighted the importance of making project outputs accessible not only to organisations already working in sport for development, but also to mainstream sport bodies such as federations, which may be less familiar with the concept.
Progressing the Research Phase
A key focus of the meeting was the work package related to research, particularly the desk research which will underpin a training needs analysis for the sector. Partners reviewed initial findings from the desk research and discussed how these insights can inform the design of a comprehensive survey.
Participants highlighted approaches such as involving communities in programme design and using monitoring and evaluation as tools for learning and improvement.
The draft survey questionnaire was reviewed in detail, with partners providing constructive feedback to improve clarity, relevance, and accessibility. Suggestions included broadening the scope to appeal to a global audience.
The survey is planned to run from mid-April to the end of May, with a target of at least 400 responses. Partners will play a key role in distributing the survey and promoting participation through their networks.
Engaging Stakeholders
In addition to the survey, partners will organise consultation focus groups to gather further insights from stakeholders. These sessions, expected to take place in June and July, will help validate findings and ensure the project’s outputs are grounded in the realities of the sector.
Communication
Effective communication was identified as a priority, with partners agreeing to work collaboratively to raise awareness and share the project’s aims and outputs. A range of channels including social media, events, and publications will be used to reach diverse audiences, from sport for development practitioners to mainstream sport organisations and academic institutions.
Next steps
The meeting concluded with a clear set of next steps, including finalising the survey, planning focus groups, and continuing collaboration on research and communication activities. The next partner meeting will take place online in May, with a further in-person meeting planned for September.
Overall, the first SKILLS4CHANGE partner meeting was both valuable and inspiring. Clear objectives, engaged partners, and a shared commitment mean the project is well positioned to support the development of skills and knowledge across the sport for development sector.
Participant testimonials
SKILLS4CHANGE Partnership
- SportMalta
- European Observatoire of Sport and Employment (EOSE)
- Athletes Inspire Children (AIC)
- International Platform on Sport and Development, operated by International Sport and Culture Association (ISCA)
- International Table Tennis Federation Foundation (ITTFF)
- Palacký University of Olomouc, Faculty of Physical Culture
- Play International
- Sport Against Racism Ireland (SARI)
- The Johan Cruyff Foundation (JCF)
Contact
Mr Ben Gittus – EOSE Director of Standards – Click here
