In recent times, the call for a restructuring of various sectors in Ghana has gained momentum, particularly in the realm of sports management. As the President envisions resetting sectors to foster economic growth and national development, it is imperative that the National Sports Authority (NSA) be led by a technical person rather than a political appointee. A technical expert, particularly one with a strong background in sports management, would ensure the growth and sustainability of sports in Ghana. This approach aligns with global trends where successful sports organizations are driven by individuals with the relevant technical expertise rather than political connections.
A technical expert at the helm of the NSA would bring a deep understanding of the sports landscape, both locally and globally. Many of the challenges faced by the sports sector in Ghana, such as poor infrastructure, inadequate funding, and underperformance in international competitions, can be attributed to a lack of specialized leadership (Adu-Gyamfi, 2020). A leader with a technical background would be better equipped to address these challenges with the strategic insight required. Such a leader would not only focus on developing sports talent but would also be able to create sustainable policies for long-term growth (Osei-Tutu & Quartey, 2018).
Additionally, the appointment of a technical person would bring credibility to the NSA, boosting confidence among stakeholders including athletes, coaches, and sponsors. A leader with hands-on experience in sports management would be able to build the right partnerships, secure international sponsorship deals, and attract world-class talent to Ghana. According to the Global Sports Impact report, countries with professionally led sports authorities tend to excel in international competitions and develop their sports infrastructure more effectively (World Sports Foundation, 2019). A technical person in charge would also be more adept at aligning the NSA’s goals with the President’s vision of national resetting by streamlining sports development into the broader economic plan.
Furthermore, a technical leader would understand the importance of data-driven decision-making in sports development. With sports science and analytics becoming central to improving performance, a Director General with the appropriate technical expertise would be able to incorporate data into training regimens, athlete management, and infrastructure planning. This approach would help Ghana keep pace with international trends in sports management and elevate the country’s profile in global competitions.
In conclusion, the time has come for Ghana to embrace a forward-thinking approach in sports management by appointing a technical person 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. It is in this light that we propose Prof Emmanuel Osei Sarpong a seasoned sport professional and astute manager to lead the Authority. We believe his worth of experience both in academia and industry makes him the ideal candidate.
References
Adu-Gyamfi, E. (2020). Challenges in sports management and governance in Ghana: The need for reform. Journal of African Sports Management, 7(3), 112-130.
Osei-Tutu, M., & Quartey, S. (2018). Sporting success: The role of leadership and governance in Ghana’s sports sector. International Journal of Sports Administration, 14(2), 45-58.
World Sports Foundation. (2019). Global sports impact: A report on the role of sports leadership in national development. World Sports Foundation Publications.