MBABANE - Minister for Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima launched Eswatini’s first Sports Management Diploma and accepted two IDM athlete scholarships.
The event was centred on the signing of a formal memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Institute of Development Management (IDM) and the Eswatini National Sport and Recreation Council. This partnership officially introduces the first-ever professional qualification in sports management within the country.
Among the key officials present was the Minister for Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima, Sports Council Board Chairperson Celcolo ‘Dino’ Dlamini, IDM Country Director Karabo Baipidi, EOCGA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Darius Dlomo and EOCGA National Academy Chairman Victor ‘Mavikane’ Dlamini.
Karabo Baipidi, representing the IDM Board, explained the motivation behind the scholarships. “We recognise that the men and women who dedicate their lives to representing Eswatini on the regional and international stage deserve more than medals; they deserve education, professional qualifications and career pathways that endure long after their competitive years.”
Baipidi further noted that the presence of sportsmen and women enriches the institution. “Elite athletes bring to a campus community something that cannot be taught in a classroom: The discipline of training, the psychology of performance, the culture of resilience and the power of teamwork. Their presence will enhance the student experience at IDM itself, bringing the discipline, resilience and team spirit of elite athletes into the campus environment and it enriches the experience of every student on our campus.”
*Full article available on Pressreader*
Minister for Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima (4th L) and IDM Country Director Karabo Baipidi (4th R) line up with other top officials during the signing of the landmark agreement. (Pic: Ncamile Ngozo)