The Asian Football Confederation (AFC)’s commitment to strengthening leadership capacity across its Member Associations (MAs) was reinforced once again with the commencement of the fourth AFC Certificate in Football Leadership (ACFL) on Monday. First launched in June 2023, the programme reflects the AFC’s unwavering efforts to uphold its Vision of becoming the world’s leading Confederation by nurturing the next generation of football leaders.

Comprising primarily decision-makers and key football stakeholders, the flagship educational initiative will span six months and aims to equip participants with fundamental leadership knowledge, enabling them, upon graduating, to manage and direct their respective organisations’ resources effectively. In welcoming the participants, AFC Deputy General Secretary – Member Association Division, Vahid Kardany, said: “The modern game of football is constantly evolving, and it demands effective leadership more than ever before.

“The ability to make informed, ethical, and strategic decisions has a direct impact not only on organisational success, but also on the development of the game, both on and off the pitch.

“That is why programmes such as the ACFL are vital in enabling current and future leaders of the game to develop a deeper understanding of how leadership decisions influence all areas of football operations—from the front office to on-field performance.”
One of the AFC’s key initiatives to maximise the potential of its MAs and Regional Associations (RAs), the ACFL will feature six informative modules: Principles of Leadership; Influence and Impact through Communication; Organisational Design and Development in Football; Environmental, Social and Governance in Football; A Leader’s Perspective of Football Development & Performance; and Managing Projects in Football. In addition to enhancing individual capabilities, the programme is also expected to foster a strong network of football leaders across Asia, encouraging the exchange of diverse perspectives and experiences to drive positive change within their respective communities.

Conducted under the aegis of the AFC Academic Centre of Excellence (ACE), the ACFL is among a host of educational initiatives undertaken by the Confederation, including the AFC Football Management Certificate, AFC Football Management Diploma, AFC Certificate in Child Safeguarding, AFC Club Management Programme, AFC Certificate in Strategy and Planning, AFC Empowering Women in Football Programme, and the AFC Certificate in Football Administration and Management.