The Dean of the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at the University of Baghdad, Prof. Sabah Qasim Khalaf, received FIFA-accredited international instructor Simon Jenkins on the sidelines of the opening ceremony of the Asian Pro License Course, in the presence of Dr. Wisam Najeeb Asliywah, Director of Coach Education and Development at the Technical Committee of the Iraqi Football Association, and instructor Abdulrahim Hameed.
Prof. Khalaf warmly welcomed the distinguished guests, commending the significant role of international instructors in enhancing the coaching system and improving the competencies of Iraqi trainers. He emphasized the college’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with global sports institutions and exchanging both academic and practical expertise in the fields of sports training and modern football.
The meeting discussed prospects for joint cooperation in organizing workshops and advanced training courses, as well as the potential for hosting international scientific forums that contribute to the development of modern football philosophy. The Dean affirmed that the college remains open to hosting activities and programs that serve the progress of Iraqi sports.
The training course sessions are being held in the fields and halls of the College of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, focusing on vital topics such as physical fitness, technical analysis, player rehabilitation after injury, and updates to the laws of the game. The program also includes four weeks of practical field applications with teams and match analysis from the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup Finals.
Furthermore, the course explores transformations in modern football, playing models, football language, performance systems, and the integration of technology and artificial intelligence in developing the game—aligning with global advancements in sports training and performance analysis, and supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4: Quality Education and 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
