PNGFA Enhances Commercial and Communications Expertise via OFC Seminar

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) has successfully concluded the second module of the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Football Management Certificate, a strategic initiative aimed at bolstering the leadership and operational capacity of football administrators in the region.

Held over two intensive days, the seminar focused on modernising the federation’s commercial practices and communication strategies to ensure long-term sustainability and growth.

Designed in collaboration with UEFA through the ‘UEFA together’ programme, the certification aims to equip football leaders with the practical skills necessary to excel in the competitive sports industry.

The PNGFA workshops provided staff with a platform to explore critical areas such as diversifying revenue streams, securing sustainable sponsorship, and refining internal and external communication protocols. By facilitating interactive sessions, the program encouraged participants to develop collaborative solutions that align with the federation’s broader organisational objectives.

Praising the engagement as a vital step in the federation’s development, PNGFA general secretary, Ahmjad Tekwie, said: “We’d like to thank OFC for delivering this workshop. It has been a valuable opportunity for our team, giving them a better understanding of commercial and communications and how these areas support the work of PNGFA.”

“The knowledge and skills they’ve gained will help strengthen our operations and ensure we’re all working together to move the federation forward,” Tekwie said.

The feedback from participants highlighted the immediate practical value of the training.

Noting the critical importance of communication within her role, PNGFA Just Play officer, Sonia Embahe, added: “Communication is something I really need to work on, especially in the role that I work in.”

“So always communicating and keeping everyone informed in what I do,” Embahe said.

Emphasising that the seminar is part of a broader commitment to building institutional strength across the Pacific, OFC head of member association services, Dudley Langelier, noted: “This seminar and the Certificate programme in general reflect OFC’s commitment to working closely with the member associations in strengthening the capabilities not only of their team members but as an organisation.”

“It provided the opportunity for the team to reflect, discuss and bring in new ideas in the areas of Commercial and Communication supporting PNGFA’s long-term development,” Langelier noted.

The completion of this seminar marks the midpoint of the PNGFA’s involvement in the Certificate programme, with the third module scheduled to take place in the coming months. The OFC is set to continue the regional rollout of the initiative with the Tonga Football Association in August.

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