Millions of children around the world benefit from 'International Inspiration'

The programme is dedicated to creating lasting opportunities for children and young people of all abilities around the world, especially in developing countries, through physical activity, sport and play.

Launched in January 2008 by Prime Minister Gordon Brown, the programme has been successfully piloted in five countries: Azerbaijan, Brazil, India, Palau and Zambia. As a result, it has won the formal backing of the International Olympic Committee and will now extend to five new countries: Bangladesh, Ghana, Jordan, Mozambique and Trinidad and Tobago.

The project works closely with Education and Sport Ministries, National Olympic and Paralympic Committees to deliver high-quality sport and PE in both schools and communities. The project aims to reach 12 million children in 20 countries by 2012. 

'International Inspiration' forms a key part of the London 2012 international education programme. Delivery is being led by UK Sport in partnership with the British Council and UNICEF; it is funded jointly by the Department for International Development (DFID), the British Council, UNICEF, DCMS and the Premier League.

Denis Oswald, Chairman of the IOC’s Coordination Commission for the London 2012 Games, said: 'When Seb Coe and London 2012 made their final presentation to the IOC Session in Singapore, one of their commitments was that they would inspire the youth of the world. This project is one way that London 2012 is living up to that promise and the IOC is delighted to be able to support them in this very worthwhile endeavour.'

Read the full press release on the UK Sport website