Gov’t Plans Support Programmes for Athletes’ Post-Retirement Careers

The government is developing targeted programmes to support local athletes in making career transitions after retirement, according to the Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation, Abdulla Rafiu.

Speaking at the official handover ceremony of national jerseys to the Under-16 national cricket team ahead of their participation in the ACC Men’s East Zone Cup, the Minister highlighted the importance of education alongside sports. He noted that the Sports Fund would continue to provide scholarships for athletes, with a renewed focus on academic development in addition to sports training.

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The Minister said the government has already launched a number of initiatives to enhance the development of local athletes. The new programmes, currently in the design phase, aim to equip athletes with transferable skills to support future career paths beyond active sports.

He stated that these opportunities would be offered to national athletes who meet specific criteria, encouraging individuals to strive for excellence in order to qualify. The initiatives are intended to prepare athletes for potential roles such as coaching or alternative professions following retirement from competitive sport.