UIPM Coaches Certification Programme: Sixteen coaches embark on coaching journey in Accra (GHA)

An introduction to UIPM’s Coaches Certification Programme (CCP) enabled 16 male and female Modern Pentathlon coaches from across Africa to gain their first qualification.

The latest Level 1 CCP course took place in Accra (GHA) from October 17-21, coordinated by UIPM Level 3 coach and Chair of the UIPM Athletes Committee, Yasser Hefny OLY (EGY).

The intake came from Burkina Faso, Ghana, Mali and Togo, four of the many African nations focusing on UIPM Sports development ahead of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, the first Olympic Games to be held in Africa.

Yasser Hefny OLY said: “We had a very successful UIPM Level 1 coaching course in Accra, Ghana. I can assure you that this is a profound and meaningful step toward Africa's development.

“I was amazed at the intellectual and educational level of the participating group and, most importantly, the great desire to pass on the knowledge when they get back to their homelands and set long-term plans to be able to participate in major competitions, as well as take part in hosting events.

“I thank the UIPM for their trust and for relying on me to teach this course. I also strongly advise repeating this model regularly in developing countries, with a follow-up strategy to monitor the progress.”

UIPM Coaches Committee Chairman Christian Roudaut said: “It was very encouraging to hear about the success of the Level 1 course in Ghana, which enabled 16 coaches to gain a qualification through expert tuition and to refine their coaching techniques in Modern Pentathlon.

“I would like to thank Yasser and everybody involved in this successful introductory course, and we are all looking forward to Dakar 2026 and to the ongoing development of our sporting movement across Africa and around the world.”

Like all CCP courses, coaches will earn their Level 1 qualification when they conclude the syllabus by completing e-learning courses covering anti-doping and harassment prevention.

For more information on the CCP please visit the UIPM Educational Platform.