The organisation of a Shuttle Time programme in southern Senegal involving multiple stakeholders and beneficiaries is expected to provide a boost to the sport in the region, which borders Gambia.
Among the important aspects of this programme, held 25-28 January 2024, was the involvement of Special Olympics, and the presence of participants from neighbouring Gambia.
As part of its plan to decentralise badminton, Senegal Badminton Association (FESBAD) organised the three-day activation in three regions of south Senegal — Kolda, Sedhiou and Ziguinchor. This was the first Shuttle Time training session in these regions since FESBAD was set up. Thirty teachers were trained by four Tutors. Inspection Academy officials from the Ministry of Education and school PE teachers from the Special Olympics enhanced the training.
Special Olympics Participants
Out of the 30 teachers, three were teachers from Special Olympics who will be able to teach/coach badminton with Special Olympics athletes/students. FESBAD is in the process of signing an MOU with their Special Olympics counterparts.
This partnership was followed by an exhibition in front of around 50 young people.
Gambian Involvement
The innovative aspect of this programme was the presence of three participants from neighbouring Gambia, which lent a unique touch to the event. Gambia Badminton Association’s President, Abdoulie Cessary, was present during the activity.
The Gambians took part in the training session on the theme of ‘Friendship Around the Shuttlecock’; this collaboration is sure to promote good relations between the two countries and will have a tremendous impact on the development of badminton in the southern regions.
With the Special Olympics, a new collaboration has been set up to enable specially-abled athletes to practise badminton. Mrs Badji from Special Olympics praised the training and thanked FESBAD. She also invited FESBAD to organise an activity and training session exclusively for Senegal’s Special Olympics.
The involvement of Gambia in the programme is a big step in forging a greater south-south partnership to develop badminton in those regions. The next event will take place in the Gambian capital, to raise the profile of badminton there.
The event was well covered by written and TV press, with reports presented regionally and nationally.
