UCT signs historic MoU with CAF focused on training African football executives

The University of Cape Town (UCT) and the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Wednesday, 8 May 2024 in Cairo, Egypt. The agreement between the two organisations will see UCT provide bespoke courses and programmes as an Africa Centre of Education Excellence. These will aim to enhance knowledge, build capacity and strengthen administrative skills among Africa’s football stakeholders.

The MoU, signed by UCT Vice-Chancellor (VC) interim Emeritus Professor Daya Reddy and CAF’s Secretary General Véron Mosengo-Omba, will herald a new era in African football, prioritising education and skills development among the administrators entrusted with running member associations.

UCT Chair of Council Mr Norman Arendse SC said, “UCT is absolutely delighted to partner with CAF on this critically important project to train and develop the leaders and future leaders of African football. UCT shares the vision of CAF, which is to develop and sustain a truly world class organisation based entirely on excellence.”

Commenting on the significance of the agreement, Emeritus Professor Reddy said, “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.”

CAF Secretary General Mosengo-Omba said, “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. The agreement between the two organisations also speaks to the work that has been done in turning CAF around and positioning it as among 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.”

Quinton Johnson PhD, the director of the International Office, will lead the programme. It will include a mix of online and on-site modules to be held at the UCT Graduate School of Business (GSB). 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.