CÔTE D’IVOIRE : CAF launches « Kick & Learn » project to prioritize the education of future African football stars
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has recently launched a revolutionary initiative called « Kick & Learn » with the aim of redefining the future of African football by placing education at the heart of the development of future talents.
This innovative approach represents a significant shift in how CAF envisions developing and supporting young talents on the continent, recognizing the crucial importance of education alongside sports training.
The primary goal of « Kick & Learn » is to ensure the comprehensive development of aspiring professional footballers, taking into account not only their athletic skills but also their education. CAF acknowledges the challenges that footballers face at the end of their careers and seeks to address these challenges for the next generation of emerging stars.
Through this initiative, CAF sends a strong message : education is the priority. It emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach, combining academic excellence and sports skills, to shape resilient and responsible individuals, both on and off the field.
Former Nigerian international Daniel Amokachi, currently a television consultant, actively promotes this message among young students. He shares his personal experience, emphasizing that even for those who have reached the pinnacle of their careers, a solid educational foundation is essential.
Salomon Kalou, former Ivorian international, supports this vision, stating that education and sports are inseparable. Referring to his own journey, Kalou highlights the importance of education in training centers, where it is treated with the same significance as sports.
In response to this emphasis on education, CAF is restructuring the format of the African School Championship, seamlessly integrating educational elements into the sporting journey of young talents.
Veron Mosengo, the Secretary-General of CAF, underscores the importance of this initiative, highlighting the organization’s concerns about the post-career challenges faced by football professionals. CAF President Patrice Motsepe echoes this concern, advocating for the indispensable role of education alongside football.
« Kick & Learn » represents a turning point in the development of African football, breaking away from the traditional norm that focused solely on athletic performance. As CAF paves the way for a new era of football, the integration of education emerges as a beacon, guiding the next generation of African stars towards success, both on and off the field.
