NOCZ Challenges ASMC Cohort III Graduates to Drive Excellence in Sports Governance

A blissful day it was as the National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ) on 5 June 2026 hosted the Advanced Sports Management Course (ASMC) Cohort III graduation ceremony in Lusaka, with graduands looking stunning as they prepared to receive their certificates.

The programme, supported by Olympic Solidarity, attracted 31 sports administrators from various federations and organisations.

Speaking during the graduation ceremony, Guest of Honour Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, Kangwa Chileshe, who was represented by Director of Sport Gibson Muyaule, disclosed that the Government recognises that the foundation of sporting excellence is built not only on the dedication of athletes and coaches but also on strong leadership and strategic planning within sports organisations.

Graduands pose for a photo after receiving their certificates.

Chileshe said the programme is contributing significantly to the professionalisation of sports management in Zambia. He noted that the knowledge and skills acquired by participants will enhance governance, programme implementation, athlete support systems and institutional development across the country’s sporting sector.

The Permanent Secretary further praised the partnership between Olympic Solidarity and NOCZ, describing it as a key driver of education and professional development within sport.

He said such collaborations align with the Government’s vision of building an inclusive, dynamic and well-governed sports industry capable of achieving excellence both on and off the field.

Chileshe also urged the graduates to embrace innovation and integrity, emphasising that their leadership will play a crucial role in shaping the future of sport in Zambia while inspiring the next generation of athletes and sports administrators.

NOCZ President Alfred Foloko expressed gratitude to Olympic Solidarity, facilitators and the Government for their support in delivering the programme, noting that it equips sports administrators with the knowledge and skills needed to strengthen sports organisations and promote excellence in the sector.

Foloko commended the graduates of ASMC Cohort III, describing the programme as a significant investment in the future of sports administration and governance in Zambia.

He challenged the graduates to apply the knowledge acquired during the course to improve governance, accountability and strategic planning within their respective federations and institutions.

NOCZ Secretary General/CEO Boniface Kambikambi thanked the graduates for their dedication, commitment and perseverance throughout the Advanced Sports Management Course.

Kambikambi commended them for successfully completing the programme and encouraged them to apply the knowledge and skills acquired to strengthen governance, leadership and development within their respective sports institutions and organisations.

Class Representative Gerald Kanyanta expressed gratitude to Olympic Solidarity and NOCZ for their continued investment in the development of sports administrators.

Kanyanta said the support provided through the training has enhanced the capacity of sports leaders and administrators, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively contribute to the growth and professionalisation of sport in Zambia.

The ceremony was witnessed by different stakeholders, among them National Sports Council of Zambia (NSCZ) CEO/Director Sombwa Musunsa, Zambia Air Force Director Local Training Col. Amos Swimwiinga, Course facilitators, Dr Fredrick Chitangala and Mwembe Kaona, IOC Believe in Sport Ambassador Nchimunya Mweetwa, Athletes Commission Chairperson Esther Siafumko, among others.

NOCZ remains committed to strengthening capacity building within the sports sector and is confident that the graduates will play a key role in advancing the growth, governance and development of sport in Zambia.