An educational resource created by a County Tyrone man has been downloaded thousands of times globally as a response to recent racist disturbances in Northern Ireland.

Michael Donaghy, originally from Loughmacrory, left Tyrone in 2015 and now teaches at a primary school in Wokingham, Berkshire. He and colleague Ravi Khalsa produced the FIFA World Cup 2026 Activity Pack, a book celebrating the cultures of the 48 nations participating in the tournament and linking them to areas of the British curriculum. Mr Donaghy provided the illustrations, while Mr Khalsa authored the content.

Mr Donaghy said the idea originated in October 2025, and the pack has since been adopted by teachers, schools and families in multiple countries. A video from a classroom in Cambodia shows children using the materials, and teacher groups on social media in Ireland have shared the resource.

The project has taken on added significance, Mr Donaghy explained, because of racist riots in Belfast and anti-immigration protests in his home county. He said the murder of Henry Novak had also deeply affected communities. He stressed the need to highlight what unites people, particularly through the global appeal of football.

“We are growing in diversity, especially in England,” Mr Donaghy said. He noted that many first and second-generation immigrants maintain ties to their countries of origin, and the pack offers representation while supporting school activities. He added that children have been open and engaged with the book.

Mr Donaghy, a former pupil of Omagh CBS, said seeing his drawings used so widely had been a surreal experience. He hopes the pack helps people of all ages gain insight into other cultures during the World Cup tournament.