Eleven candidates from eight Member AssociationsAlgeria, Djibouti, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Egypt, Ghana, South Africa, and Zimbabwebenefited from this intensive workshop led by ITTF Senior Events Project Manager Mohamed Eldawlatly.

The workshop offered a blend of theoretical and practical training, featuring presentations on ITTF Competition Manager and Event Supervisor responsibilities, the global promotion of table tennis, conducting draws, preparing competition schedules, and a venue visit during the African Championships. This hands-on experience allowed participants to apply what they had learned in a real-world setting.

The workshop was mind-blowing. We learned a lot through discussions, observations, and hands-on practice, all thanks to our course expert. He is such a great teacher and mentor. David Senyo (Ghana)

It was clear that the level of participants was better than in any previous similar activity, which led to richer discussions across the group. The next step is assisting ATTF in assigning those who pass the exam to events as assistants to Competition Managers. This will help them gain more on-site experience and be evaluated for future roles. Mohamed Eldawlatly (ITTF Senior Events Project Manager)

At the end of the workshop, candidates completed a written examination to assess their knowledge and skills. Successful participants earned the provisional title of Regional Competition Managers in Progress. Following further evaluation at an ITTF-sanctioned event, these candidates may qualify as certified Regional Competition Managers.

The candidates demonstrated exceptional knowledge and dedication throughout the workshop, underscoring their commitment to advancing table tennis competition management across Africa. The Ethiopian Table Tennis Federation hosted the event with outstanding organization, fostering an environment conducive to learning and professional growth.

Following the workshop, ITTF organized an online examination on December 21 for individuals who had previously attended ITTF Competition Management Seminars in Lagos, Nigeria, and Johannesburg, South Africa, in 2022. This online component provided an alternative pathway for these candidates to attain Regional Competition Manager in Progress status.

Eighteen candidates from nine MAs (Tunisia, Eritrea, Botswana, South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt, Ghana, Ethiopia, and Zambia) participated in the online exam, which was organized across two time zones to accommodate the participants.

The initiative represents ITTFs ongoing commitment to bolstering technical expertise within Africa, laying a strong foundation for the future growth and professionalization of table tennis in the region.