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The Tanzania Judo Association (JATA) is set to launch a “Judo in Schools” program aimed at integrating the sport into the country’s educational system.
Innocent Mallya, JATA Parmanent Secretary, who is currently attending a three-week Coaching International Enrichment Certificate Program (ICECP) at Delaware University in the United States, said the initiative seeks to develop a new generation of Judokas while enhancing the physical, mental, and social growth of children.
“We plan to introduce Judo in schools to identify and nurture young talent, shaping them into future Judokas. Schools are ideal places for spotting potential athletes, and the program will also support children’s overall development. The knowledge I am gaining at Delaware University will be invaluable in designing the Judo curriculum,” Mallya said.
The program is funded by the Tanzania Olympic Committee (TOC). Modules of the ICECP course include Project Proposal Writing, Sports Biometrics Technology, Sports Nutrition, Character of Strength, and the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in sports proposal development.
Mallya, the first local Judo coach to attend the ICECP course, holds Judo Level 1, 2, and 3 coaching certificates. Prior to traveling to the U.S., he participated in the course online.
He plans to apply the knowledge gained to enhance proficiency in sports science, talent identification, athlete development, and coaching education.
“The course will equip us with the skills needed to train aspiring coaches in Tanzania. It provides both theoretical foundations and practical applications that will promote the growth of sport and Olympic values in our country,” he added.
ICECP participants are expected to return to their countries to serve as coaches and foundation builders for future athletes, promoting the Olympic spirit at all levels.
According to the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the program is designed to help national-level coaches and sport development officials improve in areas such as athlete development, coaching education, talent identification, sports science, grassroots development, and ethical coaching practices.