In Turkmenistan a tennis program for children with disabilities is being launched
UNICEF and the Tennis Federation of Turkmenistan (TFT) have joined forces to enable children with physical disabilities to experience the joy of sport and believe in their abilities. The country's first wheelchair tennis program will be more than just a sporting initiative; it will be an opportunity for young Turkmen citizens aged 7 to 18 to gain confidence, socialize, and become full members of society.
Participants in the program will receive not only specialized sports wheelchairs and professional coaching support, but also individualized lessons developed in accordance with international standards. This has been made possible through the shared vision of UNICEF and the TFT, who are convinced that sport has the power to erase any boundaries and break down stereotypes.
The initiative is based on UNICEF's "Sport for Development" approach, which views physical activity as a powerful tool for creating an inclusive environment where children with different abilities can play and develop together. Wheelchair tennis, as research shows, not only strengthens physical health but also promotes the development of social skills, the formation of a positive self-image, and active involvement in community life.
"We are deeply convinced that every child has an inalienable right to play, develop their talents, and fully participate in society. Our collaboration with the Tennis Federation of Turkmenistan is not just a project, it is an investment in the future. We want children with disabilities to have equal opportunities to engage in sports, make new friends, and become stronger in spirit. By supporting inclusive sports, we are not only changing the lives of individual children but also working to make society more open and accepting" emphasized Alexander Nartea, Deputy Representative of UNICEF in Turkmenistan.
Within the framework of the program, UNICEF and the TFT will also conduct training for local coaches, ensure the accessibility of sports grounds, and provide the necessary equipment to create the most comfortable conditions for training. The culmination will be a Children's Tennis Festival, which will demonstrate the importance of sport for the development and integration of children, as well as inspire other families to join adaptive sports initiatives.
This program is not just a one-time event, but an important step towards the long-term development of wheelchair tennis in Turkmenistan. It will contribute to the inclusion of this sport in national development strategies, creating sustainable opportunities for children with disabilities. UNICEF and the TFT reaffirm their firm commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of their abilities, can realize their potential and achieve success.
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