Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
NATIONAL Athletics Association of Zimbabwe (Naaz) administrator Manuel Mpofu has called on teachers to enrol in professional courses lined up ahead of the start of the schools’ athletics calendar.
As preparations for the new athletics season gather pace, Naaz has organised a series of education and certification programmes under the World Athletics framework. The courses, designed for teachers from primary and secondary schools, aim to equip educators with the skills to introduce athletics to children effectively and lay a strong foundation for future talent.
The World Athletics (WA) Coaches Education and Certification System Level One, alongside the Technical Officials Education and Certification System Level One, will be rolled out in both Harare and Bulawayo. In Harare, the coaches’ course runs from January 23 to 25 at the National Sports Stadium while Bulawayo hosts the same programme from January 29 to 31 at White City Stadium. Technical officials in both cities will also undergo their Level One course from January 23 to 25.
With the first term of schools traditionally centred around athletics competitions, Mpofu urged teachers not to miss the opportunity to participate.
“We are laying foundations that will shape the sport for years. Taking part in these courses is an investment in yourself, your students, and the future of Zimbabwean athletics,” he said.
The courses are expected to attract teachers nationwide, reinforcing the link between education, professional development, and sporting excellence as schools settle into their athletics-focused first term.
Mpofu said the association remains firmly on an education-driven path, convinced that sustainable success begins long before medals are chased.
“The foundation of developing elite athletes is in having well-trained, knowledgeable coaches. Without the right coaching, even the most talented athletes may not reach their full potential,” he said.
