The agreement brings together three partners who share a common vision for the future of young people: the International Judo Federation (IJF), the Ministry for Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Jenys International Sports Foundation. The memorandum marks an important step in the promotion of judo as both a sport and an educational tool for university students throughout the country.
The initiative reflects the growing recognition of the role that judo can play in higher education. Beyond physical activity, judo contributes to personal development, discipline, leadership, resilience and mutual respect, qualities that are essential both on and off the tatami.
Under the terms of the agreement, parties will work together to introduce and develop judo programmes within higher education institutions under the authority of the Ministry for Science and Higher Education of Kazakhstan. The objective is to create new opportunities for students to discover and practise judo while benefiting from its educational values.
The Ministry and the Jenys International Sports Foundation intend to support the creation of dedicated structures and co-ordinators within universities, facilitate the training and professional development of coaches and instructors, explore the introduction of theoretical and practical judo classes, and support the organisation of university judo competitions and events.
For its part, the International Judo Federation will provide methodological support, assist in the training of coaches and instructors, support the organisation of competitions and training camps, contribute to the development of sport infrastructure and equipment and help promote the preparation of future high-level athletes.
IJF President Mr Marius Vizer welcomed the agreement, "Education has always been at the heart of judo. Jigoro Kano created judo not only as a sport but as a means of developing better individuals and stronger communities. By bringing judo closer to students and universities, we are investing in future generations and providing young people with valuable tools that will benefit them throughout their lives. We are proud to work alongside the Ministry for Science and Higher Education of Kazakhstan and the Jenys International Sports Foundation on this important initiative."
The co-operation will take many forms, including seminars, working meetings, training camps, sporting events and educational activities. The agreement also creates a framework for future projects and new areas of collaboration that may emerge as the programme develops.
Kazakhstan has become one of the leading nations in the development of judo, consistently demonstrating its commitment to the growth of the sport at all levels. This new partnership extends that commitment into the academic world, creating bridges between education and sport while opening new pathways for young people.
Through this agreement, the IJF reaffirms its belief that judo is much more than competition. It is a powerful educational instrument capable of helping students develop physically, intellectually and socially, while preparing them to become responsible citizens and future leaders.