Sustainable Goals Through Sport (SGS) launches with kick-off meeting in Budapest

The Sustainable Goals Through Sport (SGS) project officially launched with a kick-off meeting in Budapest, Hungary, on 26-27 February 2026. Hosted by the Budapest Association for International Sports (BAIS), the meeting brought together partners from Europe and Africa to begin a two-year collaboration focused on sustainability, youth empowerment, and the role of sport as a tool for learning and positive change.

The SGS partnership includes BAIS, ENGSO Youth, Centre for Sustainable Solutions Ireland, RHD Kenya, Association Jeunesse En Action GNO FAR from Senegal, and Sustainable Society Accelerator from Croatia. Together, the partners will develop practical resources, learning opportunities, and youth-led activities that promote sustainability through sport.

During the meeting, partners introduced their organisations, aligned on the project’s objectives and structure, and reviewed the work plan for the months ahead. Discussions also explored the wider vision of SGS, including its link to the legacy of Dakar 2026 and its aim to help young people engage with sustainability, leadership, and social responsibility in meaningful ways.

Particular attention was given to the first phase of implementation, including the initial research and needs analysis activities, which will help identify current practices and opportunities in sport-based sustainability education. The consortium also discussed communication and dissemination plans, led by ENGSO Youth, to ensure the project reaches young people, sport organisations, policymakers, and wider communities.

The kick-off meeting marked an important first step for the partnership and laid a strong foundation for the work ahead. With the project now underway, the SGS consortium is looking forward to rolling out its first activities and building momentum for the next stages of implementation.