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The imperative for restructuring various sectors in Ghana has gained significant momentum, with a particular emphasis on sports management. In sync with the President’s vision of resetting sectors to catalyze economic growth and national development, it is incumbent upon the government to ensure that the National Sports Authority (NSA) is helmed by a technical expert rather than a political appointee.
A technical luminary, possessing a robust background in sports management, would be instrumental in guaranteeing the sustainable growth and development of sports in Ghana. This approach is consonant with global best practices, where successful sports organizations are spearheaded by individuals with pertinent technical expertise rather than political connections.
The appointment of a technical expert to lead the NSA would bring a profound understanding of the sports landscape, both domestically and internationally. The myriad challenges confronting the sports sector in Ghana, including inadequate infrastructure, insufficient funding, and underperformance in international competitions, can be attributed to a dearth of specialized leadership.
Research has shown that the absence of technical expertise at the helm of sports organizations can have far-reaching consequences. For instance, a study by Adu-Gyamfi (2020) highlighted the need for specialized leadership in sports management. Similarly, Osei-Tutu and Quartey (2018) emphasized the importance of sustainable policies for long-term growth in sports development.
A technical expert leading the NSA would not only focus on developing sports talent but also create sustainable policies for long-term growth. This would involve streamlining sports development into the broader economic plan, aligning with the President’s vision of national resetting.
Moreover, the appointment of a technical person would lend credibility to the NSA, bolstering confidence among stakeholders, including athletes, coaches, and sponsors. A leader with hands-on experience in sports management would be adept at forging strategic partnerships, securing international sponsorship deals, and attracting world-class talent to Ghana.
The Global Sports Impact report by the World Sports Foundation (2019) underscores the importance of professional leadership in sports authorities. Countries with expertly led sports authorities tend to excel in international competitions and develop their sports infrastructure more effectively.
In conclusion, the time has come for Ghana to adopt a forward-thinking approach in sports management by appointing a technical expert to lead the National Sports Authority. As the President pushes for the resetting of sectors to spur development, sports should not be left behind. Appointing a leader with the right technical expertise will not only address existing challenges but also help transform Ghana into a sports powerhouse on the global stage.
In this regard, Prof Emmanuel Osei Sarpong, a seasoned sports professional and astute manager, is an exemplary candidate to lead the Authority. Indeed his wealth of experience in both academia and industry makes him the ideal candidate to spearhead the NSA and propel Ghana’s sports development to unprecedented heights.
Story by Lawrence Odoom/Phalonzy
