By Flora Mkoloma
A total of 108 participants have graduated from a sports medicine training program held at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
The program aims to bridge the skills gap in sports-related healthcare.
The graduates, drawn from various regions across Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar, are expected to enhance the quality of care for athletes at different levels.
During the closing ceremony, Alex Nkenyenge, the Director of Infrastructure at the Ministry of Culture, Arts, and Sports, urged the graduates to prioritize three key principles: continuous learning, professional networking, and active engagement with sports medicine associations such as the Tanzania Sports Medicine Association (TASMA).
“To establish a strong foundation in this field, you must commit to learning and stand out through your skills. Volunteering and collaborating with experienced professionals will help you refine your expertise,” said Nkenyenge.
He added that registering with TASMA would enable the participants to grow professionally and remain updated on developments in the field.
Jonas Tiboroha, the Principal of Malya Sports Development College, highlighted the urgent need for sports medicine professionals, particularly at the grassroots level, as the primary motivation for the training program.
“Our research revealed a critical shortage of sports medicine experts in schools, colleges, and community sports programs. This deficiency denies young athletes timely care when injuries occur, potentially hindering their growth and achievements,” Tiboroha explained.
He announced plans to expand the training to more regions in Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar, ensuring broader access to these essential skills.
Tiboroha challenged the graduates to apply their newly acquired knowledge and skills in their communities.
He encouraged them to be proactive and serve as ambassadors for sports medicine, addressing the existing gaps and creating awareness of its importance.
“This training is just the beginning. Go out there, implement what you’ve learned, and be the change-makers in your regions,” he concluded.
The program’s success marks a significant step toward improving healthcare in sports, ensuring that athletes at all levels receive the support they need to thrive.