Turkmenistan ACFAM graduates complete AFC
Twenty-five football administrators from Turkmenistan have graduated from the AFC's six-month hybrid ACFAM programme, designed to build leadership and
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has celebrated the graduation of 25 participants from its hybrid AFC Certificate in Football Administration and Management (ACFAM) programme in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. The six-month course was delivered in collaboration with the Football Federation of Turkmenistan (FFT).
Hosted by the FFT, the programme aimed to equip managers and administrators with the leadership competencies required for the modern football industry. Participants included staff from the federation, clubs, and other key stakeholders from the Central Asian nation.
Programme Structure and Content
The Turkmenistan edition followed successful launches in the Kyrgyz Republic and Indonesia. It used a hybrid format combining online classes with face-to-face sessions.
The syllabus comprised 12 dedicated modules aligned with the AFC's efforts to help Member and Regional Associations build sustainable organisations. Key functional areas covered were income generation, professional club licensing, content creation, and financial management. Strategic management, principles of leadership, child safeguarding, sustainability, and football governance were also included.
Participants undertook practical learning exercises, group activities, and case-study discussions. These were designed to enhance problem-solving, strategic thinking, and operational management skills. Special guest lectures on infrastructure, pitch maintenance, and professional club licensing provided further insights.
Participant and Official Reactions
Graduate Vadim Baratov said the programme allowed for constructive idea exchange with colleagues. "The practical relevance of the topics and their insights are directly related to the challenges we face in football today," Baratov stated. He looks forward to applying the lessons in his daily work.
Another graduate called the programme "most rewarding" and "beneficial." They noted that the diverse modules and learning from AFC experts improved their ability to contribute to inter-organisation development.
AFC Deputy General Secretary Vahid Kardany said the completion marks a milestone in the AFC's commitment to providing tailored educational tools. "The ACFAM curriculum is in line with international best practices in football management," Kardany stated. He applauded the graduates' passion to acquire practical knowledge for positive local change.
Kardany also expressed gratitude to the FFT for its collaboration and support. He said their investment in education creates a strong foundation for future leaders to drive sustainable growth. You can follow the development of future leaders by checking the latest standings in AFC competitions.
AFC's Educational Mission
Conducted under the AFC Academic Centre of Excellence (ACE), the ACFAM initiative underscores the confederation's capacity-building efforts. It reflects a mission to nurture skilled administrators capable of strengthening governance and elevating professional standards.
The AFC's wider education portfolio includes the AFC Football Management Certificate and Diploma. It also features the AFC Certificate in Football Leadership, the AFC Certificate in Child Safeguarding, and the AFC Club Management Programme. The AFC Certificate in Strategy and Planning and the AFC Empowering Women in Football Programme complete the list. For more detailed performance metrics from teams across the continent, visit our stats page.
The new graduates are expected to apply their capabilities to address regional football needs and strengthen administrative excellence in their organisations.
