In a move set to reshape the future of African football, CAF and the prestigious University of Cape Town [UCT] have joined forces.
On Wednesday, the governing body of African football, CAF, announced that they signed a “landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)” with a leading learning institution on the continent, UCT in Cairo, Egypt.
This MoU, described by CAF as historic, marks a new chapter in African football leadership. The partnership will leverage UCT’s academic excellence to develop bespoke courses and programmes specifically designed to train and empower the next generation of African football leaders.
The agreement was signed by CAF Secretary General Véron Mosengo-Omba and UCT Council Vice-Chancellor Professor Dayanand Reddy. It marks a new era in which education and skill development become top priorities for administrators within CAF’s Member Associations.
UCT, labelled as ‘an Africa Centre of Education Excellence’ by CAF, maintained its position as Africa’s top university. Both the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) in 2023 and the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings this year ranked UCT first on the continent.
“The University of Cape Town is one of the leading centres of learning globally, and CAF is very proud to be associated with such a reputable institution,” said Mosengo-Omba.
CAF and UCT Team Up to Empower African Football Leaders
“The agreement between the two organisations also speaks to the work that has been done in turning CAF around and positioning it as amongst the best learning organisations in Africa. The agreement is anchored in the promise made by CAF president Dr Patrice Motsepe three years ago to improve the efficiency and professionalism in African Football.
“We believe this collaboration will not only train the future leaders of football but also consolidate the skills and capacity of role players, thereby fostering the landscape of African football.”
THE UNIVERSITY OF UCT PLEASED TO PARTNER WITH CAF
Meanwhile, UCT Council Chair Advocate Norman Arendse echoed Mosengo-Omba’s sentiments. The latter also said that the partnership focuses on developing the current and future leaders of African football, which aligns perfectly with UCT’s vision of excellence.
“UCT is absolutely delighted to partner with CAF on this critically important project. We aim to train and develop the leaders and future leaders of African football. The university shares the vision of CA. To develop and sustain a truly world-class organization based entirely on excellence,” he said.
In addition, UCT’s Prof Reddy added: “The partnership with CAF is further testimony to UCT’s commitment to engaging in collaboration aimed at strengthening capacity and unleashing leadership potential on our continent. We are proud to join hands with CAF in this exciting venture”.
Furthermore, CAF, the organisation led by SA billionaire and owner of Mamelodi Sundowns Motsepe, revealed that the “programme will include a mix of online as well as on-site modules.” The programme will be staged at the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business.
“The key objectives of the programme will include the following, amongst others: Enhancing the skills and expertise of African football stakeholders. Building the capacity of role-players within CAF’s 54 member associations. Driving innovation and encouraging football executives to expand their strategic acumen and strengthen their leadership capabilities. Contributing to the advancement and sustainability of African football.”
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