Novak Djokovic Supports Serbian Kindergarten On UNICEF Visit

Written by: Staff on 22nd September 2012

Novak Djokovic Supports Serbian Kindergarten On UNICEF Visit

epa03393012 Novak Djokovic of Serbia hits a return to Andy Murray of Great Britain during the men's final match on the fifteenth day of the 2012 US Open Tennis Championship at the USTA National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, New York, USA, 10 September 2012. The US Open has been extended a day for the fifth straight year due to weather. EPA/JASON SZENES |

UNICEF Ambassador Novak Djokovic visited the “Beneath the Linden Trees” kindergarten in Lesnica, Serbia, on Tuesday to raise awareness in the importance of early childhood education. He spent time interacting with the 40 children, who provided a tour of their school, showed off their art skills and played tennis on a mini-court made of recycled materials.

“I’ve seen today what a unique and special place kindergarten is,” he said. “It’s a supportive space where children can learn to think creatively and work collaboratively. It’s a space where they have the freedom to be imaginative, creative and practise skills.

“Quality kindergarten can bring out the best in every child and set them on a good path for life. We have a collective responsibility to ensure every child has this kind of opportunity, so that they can better navigate challenges and risks throughout life and become responsible parents and citizens.”

Djokovic also spoke with the parents and teachers, learning the benefits the kindergarten has had on the children, before meeting with pledge donors and volunteers at the local UNICEF Office, thanking them for their support for UNICEF’s work in Serbia.

The “Beneath the Linden Trees” kindergarten, located in a village 150 km west of Belgrade, was established by UNICEF, the Serbian Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development and CIP (Center for Interactive Pedagogy), with financial support from IKEA and a personal donation by Djokovic.

“This is a place where both parents and grandparents are empowered and happy to see their children enjoy and thrive. I am glad to have contributed to that. I hope that others will join me as well,” said Djokovic.

Last week, the Novak Djokovic Foundation raised $1.4 million for early childhood education through its inaugural fundraising dinner in New York.

Djokovic tweeted a picture of his visit Tuesday, writing: “After NYC #foundation event, we are in action with kids in Serbia & @UNICEF! 4 me: the best way to spend days off :)”

(Original Link: http://www.atpworldtour.com/News/Tennis/2012/Charity/Djokovic-Supports-Serbian-Kindergarten.aspx?utm_source=ATPMailing&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=ATP%20World%20Tour%20Insider%20#38%20-%20September%2020%202012%20%281%29)

Topics: Nole, Novak Djokovic, Sports, tennis charity, Tennis News, UNicef tennis ambassaodr