The charity will partner the scheme, the IAAF’s social responsibility initiative, with a view to inspiring positive social change through sport, as well as education and cultural development.

“I am very proud that the Usain Bolt Foundation is officially partnered with the IAAF’s ‘Athletics for a Better World’,” Bolt said.

“Since the foundation was formed I, along with all the staff and volunteers, have worked very hard to inspire kids to become anything that their heart desires.

“So to be given this accolade by the IAAF is a reward for all the hard work we have put in, and a great opportunity for us to develop the foundation further and inspire more young people around the world.”

Bolt, the reigning world and Olympic 100 metres and 200m gold medallist, joins the likes of American two-times Olympic heptathlon champion Jackie Joyner-Kersee and Wilson Kipketer, three-times 800m world champion, in partnering with Athletics for a Better World.

The programme provides a platform for organisations to bring about social change by using the IAAF’s global reach and marketing channels.

“I’m thrilled that the Usain Bolt Foundation is partnering with ‘Athletics for a Better World’,” newly-elected IAAF President Sebastian Coe said.

“Together, the IAAF and Usain Bolt will not only help reach and change the lives of thousands of children through athletics but also inspire lasting social change.

“I know the positive impact athletics can have and what a strong role model Usain Bolt is to millions of people around the world.

“The combination of the two is a very powerful force and we look forward to working together and making a real difference.”

The Usain Bolt Foundation has invested millions of dollars into various community projects in Jamaica to improve the education and health of the young people involved.