Kuala Lumpur: Graduates of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC)’s fourth batch of the Football Management Diploma (FMD) programme today took a pivotal step towards becoming future senior leaders of Asian football and positively impacting the game.
Holding middle or senior management positions in the AFC's Member Associations (MAs), Regional Associations (RAs) and independent stakeholders, the graduates exited the 13-month online program with the skills and capabilities required to elevate football management and professional standards across the world.
Spanning over 460 hours of study time and comprising 12 core modules, the program has been specifically curated by the AFC to ensure the future leaders of the Asian game continue to deliver focused and dedicated services to maximize the potential of their respective MAs, RAs as well as the larger ecosystem, as underlined by the AFC's Vision and Mission.
These modules include the Organization of World Football, International Sports Federations, Strategic Management, Financial Management, Income Generation, Media & Communications, Event Management, Operational Management, HR Management, Child Safeguarding & Social Responsibility, Sports Law and Club Licensing.
Presented via online lectures, quizzes and discussions, the modules cover a comprehensive array of topics geared at providing a comprehensive understanding of football management.This in turn will enable participants to further support the Asian football community and uplift the game.
Fahmida Faiza, an independent participant from Bangladesh, said: “The FMD modules were meticulously designed to meet our expected learning objectives. Thanks to our dedicated lecturers, experienced classmates and insightful sessions, the entire learning journey has been inspiring and enriching. It has allowed me to expand my knowledge and has taught me the value of discipline, persistence, and most importantly the importance of teamwork.”
“The FMD was truly transformative as it not only increased my passion for football but also empowered me to want to contribute in more meaningful ways,” said Mathew Cheeseman, General Manager – Elite Refereeing at Football Australia. “I look forward to using my new skillsets and knowledge to take Asian football to greater heights and hopefully, become a leader that others can look up to.”
AFC Deputy General Secretary – Member Associations, Vahid Kardany said: “I applaud our graduates for tirelessly putting in the time, effort and work to complete this groundbreaking program and gain new knowledge of football management.”
“The AFC wishes them success in bringing valuable change to both the Confederation and the Asian game. Based on their showing in the FMD, I am confident that we have molded future leaders accomplished enough to truly enhance management standards.”
Launched in November 2021, the FMD is a key educational initiative under the AFC's Academic Center of Excellence. Now one of the most in-demand Asian football qualifications, the program produces aspiring leaders capable of leaving their mark on the Continental stage.