The Ashanti Region recently hosted the national launch of the Regional Taekwondo Awareness Programme (RTAP), an initiative aimed at promoting youth development through Taekwondo. The programme was organised by the Ghana Taekwondo Federation in collaboration with several stakeholders, including the National Sports Authority and the Ghana Olympic Committee. The launch took place at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi on September 25. The event brought together various stakeholders in the sports sector to discuss the importance of Taekwondo in youth development.
The programme's theme, “Promoting Taekwondo Awareness, Discipline, Fitness and Youth Development,” reflects its goals of promoting the sport beyond competitive activities. According to President of the Ghana Taekwondo Federation, Frederick L. Otu, greater awareness is needed to attract more young people to Taekwondo. He emphasized that exposing children to Taekwondo at an early age can help develop discipline, confidence, fitness, and respect for others. This, he believes, can have a positive impact on the lives of young people.
Stakeholders at the event, including Obenfo Nana Kwasi Gyetuah, President and National Coordinator of the Ghana National Council of Private Schools, stressed the importance of collaboration between schools, sports federations, and other stakeholders. They called for stronger partnerships to create more opportunities for students to participate in Taekwondo. Introducing Taekwondo to more schools could help young people develop discipline and healthy lifestyles while providing a pathway for identifying and nurturing sporting talent.
The Ashanti Regional Director of the National Sports Authority, Nana Gyaama Dakwa, also underscored the need for sustained support for sporting disciplines outside traditional mainstream sports. He said initiatives like RTAP could help broaden the sporting landscape in the region while giving young athletes opportunities to develop their talents. This could lead to a more diverse and vibrant sports scene in the region.
The Director of the Ghana National Council of Private Schools – Ashanti, Edward Akanzu-Ise, emphasized the importance of making Taekwondo accessible to pupils and students. He noted that the sport can complement academic development by helping young people build concentration, discipline, and physical fitness. This can have a positive impact on the overall development of young people.
A demonstration by athletes from the Ashanti Taekwondo Association was a major highlight of the event. The demonstration featured Poomsae, sparring, basic techniques, and self-defence, providing participants with a practical view of the skills, discipline, and physical conditioning involved in Taekwondo. The event was officially launched by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Hon. Frank Amoakohene, through a symbolic unveiling.
The launch of the Regional Taekwondo Awareness Programme forms part of efforts by stakeholders to increase awareness and participation in Taekwondo while creating stronger links between sports and education. Organisers say the programme will continue to promote Taekwondo as a sport capable of contributing to physical fitness, discipline, self-defence, talent development, and the personal growth of young people. The event concluded with a group photograph and media engagement involving officials, athletes, coaches, and other stakeholders.
Key points
- The programme aims to promote Taekwondo awareness, discipline, fitness, and youth development in the Ashanti Region.
- Stakeholders are calling for increased investment and participation in Taekwondo as a tool for youth development.
- The programme seeks to create stronger links between sports and education.
