Former Zimbabwean Member of Parliament Temba Mliswa has strongly criticized the Zimbabwe Football Association’s (ZIFA) decision to require a minimum of five O-Level passes for presidential candidates.
Mliswa argues that this requirement discourages young athletes who prioritize sports over academics. “Encouraging kids to pursue sports shouldn’t be undermined by rigid academic demands,” he emphasized.
Mliswa advocates for recognizing former players’ practical expertise in sports administration. He suggests implementing sector-specific courses to enhance skills, allowing exemptions for experienced candidates.
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He also highlights the inconsistency in governance, pointing out the disparity between ZIFA’s academic standards and the leniency afforded to politicians. “Leadership shouldn’t hinge solely on academics; practical experience and passion matter,” he stated.
In light of these concerns, Mliswa urges the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Sports to engage with the Sports and Recreation Commission to revisit ZIFA’s policy, aiming to foster more inclusive leadership opportunities.
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