Zambia participates in the 18th International Session for National Olympic Academies (NOAs) and National Olympic Committees (NOCs)

The National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ) has joined the global dialogue on the future of Olympic education, innovation, and Artificial intelligence (AI) in sport during the 18th International Session for National Olympic Academies (NOAs) and National Olympic Committees (NOCs) Delegates, held at the International Olympic Academy (IOA) in Olympia, Greece.

William Sikapanda and Tinyiko L. Kamanga

The week-long forum, from May 9 to 15, 2025, at the historic International Olympic Academy (IOA) in Ancient Olympia, has attracted 150 participants from across five continents. The session aims to enhance collaboration among NOAs and NOCs, focusing on the coordination, planning, and implementation of Olympic educational programs.

Tinyiko L. Kamanga, Olympafrica Director, and William Sikapanda, NOCZ Programmes Officer, represent NOCZ at the event. Both delegates actively participate in discussions and interactive working groups.

Their involvement highlights NOCZ’s continued commitment to embracing innovation and aligning Zambia’s sports development initiatives with global Olympic values.

This year’s session features presentations by leading global experts including Professor Hassan M. Khachfe, who discussed AI in athletic development; Cécile Faye, who shared Olympic education initiatives for Dakar 2026; Sotiris Salamouris, who spoke on the use of AI in Olympic broadcasting; and Professor Alberto Carrió, who addressed complex ethical issues related to AI in sport.

Kamanga and Sikapanda have taken part in interactive working groups where delegates are collaborating on proposals aimed at strengthening Olympic education worldwide. Their involvement highlights NOCZ’s ongoing commitment to embracing innovation and aligning national sports development with international Olympic values.

As part of the program, the Zambian representatives also took time to honour Olympic history by laying wreaths at the stele of Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympic Games. They also participated in a guided tour of the archaeological site to gain deeper insight into the origins and legacy of the Olympic movement.

Delegates pose for a photo.  Picture courtesy of NOA   

Another key highlight of the session was the screening of video presentations from various National Olympic Academies, showcasing recent educational activities, national programs, and community-based initiatives that promote Olympic values.

Zambia’s participation in this prestigious forum reflects the country’s continued investment in youth and sports development, as well as its commitment to engaging with global sporting innovations that shape the future of Olympic education.