who we are
Play & Learn Foundation brings together boys and girls who have a passion for play, a drive to lead, and a desire to pursue academic and professional excellence.
By targeting underserved communities, PAL seeks to provide opportunity where it is most needed. Play & Learn engages youth in programming that encompasses football and sport training, academic support, mentorship, and community outreach. We do this by providing access to fun, safe, equipped spaces that are supported by committed tutors, coaches and mentors. Play & Learn works to empower our participants to pursue their passions and achieve their full potential.

Our story
Founder and Executive Director Nana Kwesi Ohene conceived the idea for a combined academic and football programme in 2013, during his time as an MBA (Marketing) candidate at the University of Ghana Business School. A lifelong football fan and experienced coach, Mr. Ohene committed much of his down time as a graduate student to coaching, managing, and organizing a variety of football initiatives at the University's Ajax Park. During training sessions, Mr. Ohene began to develop relationships with the many children who would come to watch. Eventually, the children were permitted to train with the Girl's International Student football team. Over time, it became clear that these kids had a strong desire to play and came from communities where resources and opportunities were lacking (such as Okpongolo, Shiashie, Bawlashie and Madina). Many of these children come from homes that relied on their contribution to family income and in which they were the first to receive a basic education.
After identifying a series of needs, in addition to a safe and fun space to play, Mr. Ohene and a group of dedicated supporters began to conceptualize what would, in 2015, become the Play & Learn Foundation. In its earliest stages, informal activities were held and covered a diverse range of lessons, from homework help to creative writing, time management to tolerance. Activities and lessons have since been formalized in order to maximize the benefits to the youth through more structured programming. Academic sessions focus on literacy and comprehension, while football training includes the nurturing of soft skills such as teamwork and discipline. Mentorship sessions focus on topics such as problem solving and goal setting, while community outreach activities teach tolerance and respect.
Through the Years

2010
Volunteers in Technical Assistance (VITA) is formed by a group of scientists and engineers employed by General Electric in New York. Focused on poverty alleviation, VITA teams work through public-private partnerships to expand access to information, financial services, and technology in developing communities.

2013
Volunteers in Technical Assistance (VITA) is formed by a group of scientists and engineers employed by General Electric in New York. Focused on poverty alleviation, VITA teams work through public-private partnerships to expand access to information, financial services, and technology in developing communities.

2015
Volunteers in Technical Assistance (VITA) is formed by a group of scientists and engineers employed by General Electric in New York. Focused on poverty alleviation, VITA teams work through public-private partnerships to expand access to information, financial services, and technology in developing communities.

2017
Volunteers in Technical Assistance (VITA) is formed by a group of scientists and engineers employed by General Electric in New York. Focused on poverty alleviation, VITA teams work through public-private partnerships to expand access to information, financial services, and technology in developing communities.

2019
Volunteers in Technical Assistance (VITA) is formed by a group of scientists and engineers employed by General Electric in New York. Focused on poverty alleviation, VITA teams work through public-private partnerships to expand access to information, financial services, and technology in developing communities.