Kuala Lumpur: The launch of the fifth edition of the AFC Football Management Diploma (FMD) online course today once again underlined the steadfast commitment of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) towards nurturing future Asian football leaders for the betterment of the game.
A total of 48 middle and senior management participants from the AFC’s Member Associations (MAs), Regional Associations (RAs) and independent stakeholders commenced their journey in the latest FMD edition, which has been curated to mould football specific capabilities that will enable the AFC to continuously reach new landmarks both on and off the pitch.
The FMD comprises 460 hours of study time covering 12 core modules - the Organisation 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.
At the programme’s launch, the AFC Deputy General Secretary for Member Associations, Vahid Kardany, said: “All 12 FMD modules have one aim: to equip our participants with the skills and capabilities that will enable them to elevate the standards of Asian football to new heights of excellence.”
“Diverse in delivery and nature, the 12 modules provide our participants with an understanding of how football management shapes and informs today’s game.
“Above all, the FMD aligns with the AFC’s Vision and Mission, which includes becoming the world’s leading Confederation; ensuring Asian teams succeed on the world stage; and providing focused and dedicated services to maximise the potential of our Member Associations and Regional Associations.”
FMD participants and graduates have been promoted by their respective associations for their exceptional performance.
This edition’s participants will attend virtual lectures, engage in discussions, sit for quizzes and benefit from high-level business presentations as part of a dynamic curriculum.
The modules are aimed at strengthening participants’ knowledge and understanding of how football management shapes and enhances today’s game. Once comprehended, these modules will help develop problem-solving, decision-making and analytical skills, which form an integral part of the business side of football.
The FMD was introduced under the AFC Academic Centre of Excellence (ACE), an online educational platform that commenced in September 2021 to develop the skillsets and expertise of future leaders.
The first edition of the FMD kicked off in November 2021, the second in January 2022, the third in May 2022 and the fourth edition was launched in October 2022.