The Vanuatu Cricket Association (VCA) announced that it has revived the Cricket Ambassador Programme, a key initiative to strengthen cricket development within schools. Central School has been confirmed as the first recipient of the programme in Port Vila, marking a significant step in fostering grassroots cricket engagement. The school is one of the largest in the country, particularly in Port Vila. It has a high student population and offers education from primary to secondary levels. This makes it an ideal partner for the Cricket Ambassador Programme, as it allows VCA to introduce cricket to a broad and diverse group of students, ensuring widespread participation and fostering a strong cricket culture within the school, VCA said in a statement. According to the statement, the Cricket Ambassador Programme is designed to equip teachers with basic coaching skills, equipment, and resources, enabling them to run cricket sessions during school sports days and incorporate cricket skills into regular physical education programmes. "The designated Cricket Ambassador will act as the key figure for cricket at their school, embodying the spirit of cricket and essential coaching attributes, including encouraging fun and enjoyment through cricket, effective communication with students, fellow teachers, and Vanuatu Cricket; and demonstrating strong organisational and planning skills. "In addition to coaching and development, ambassadors will also integrate aspects of the VCA’s Social Impact and Inclusion Department, working alongside its manager, Mary Mahuk, to implement initiatives supported by Team-Up Australia. These programs aim to address key social issues, including combating gender-based violence and promoting inclusivity within communities through the power of sport. VCA Development Manager, Pierre Chilia, expressed his enthusiasm about the programme’s revival, stating: “With the ongoing partnership between Vanuatu Cricket and Shefa Education, as well as schools in and around Port Vila, the VCA is eager to rebuild and strengthen relationships with schools and communities. We are pleased to recognise Central School as the first recipient of the Cricket Ambassador Programme in Port Vila and appreciate their commitment to cricket development." he said. VCA looks forward to working with additional schools under this programme, ensuring that more teachers and students have access to quality cricket training and resources.