OVEP Training of Trainers Concludes

Friday 20 December marked the end of a two day Olympic Values Education Programme (OVEP) Training of Trainers Workshop which was held from 19 December 2019 at OYDC Zambia – Sports Development Centre in Lusaka.

The Training attracted 23 young leaders from various sports organisation such as NOWSPAR, Sport In Action and Olympafrica among others.

Day one of the training was characterised by a session on the background of OVEP, presentation on the OVEP Toolkit, Olympic Movement (Rings & Ceremonies and the Torch and Living the Olympic dream.

On the other hand day two included sessions on mainstreaming, planning and Implementation of OVEP in the participant’s plans, a tree planting exercise launch and presentation of certificates to the participants concluded the training.

Speaking during the closing ceremony, NOCZ Treasurer and Acting Technical Commission Chairperson Mr. Victor Banda said that Olympism and Olympic Values Education is amongst the key performance areas in the NOCZ Strategic plan with the aim of implementing OVEP in 200 primary schools ,100 secondary schools and 50 tertiary institutions across the country. And with this training is the first step in achieving NOCZ objectives.

Mr. Banda added that recognising the unique potential of sport as an educational communication tool, OVEP is a practical way of learning resources designed to inspire and allow young people to experience life values such as excellence, respect and friendship.

He further said that OVEP can enrich existing education materials and help improve academic performance in addition to civic responsibility through its activity based approach. Respect for culture diversity and educational system are in integral drivers of the programme.

Lastly in his remarks, Mr. Banda stated that with the launch of the tree planting campaign it is important for everyone to note that our environment is important for us, not only locally but also globally around the world, and today is the time to lay focus on the environment and peace.

“Trees that we plant today are part of the big campaign by the National Olympic Academy aiming to plant trees for climate and peace. The campaign draws attention to the importance of combating climate change as a way to protect and promote peace, sportsmanship and collaboration throughout the world,” he disclosed.

He also encouraged all the participants, to actively use the skills and knowledge acquired as they are transferred to other youths around the country.

The training organised by National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ) through the National Olympic Academy (NOA) was facilitated by Mr. William Sikapanda and Mr. Pearson Banda.

Taekwondo Association of Zambia President who also serves as National Olympic Academy member Mr. Likando Nangonde and Seoul 88’ Olympian Mr. Jonathan Chipalo were also present at the closing ceremony.