Erasmus Shalihaxwe
Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts, and Culture, Dino Ballotti, said sport management is not just a career but a vehicle for economic growth, youth empowerment, and nation-building.
He spoke at the Namibia University of Science and Technology’s (Nust) graduation ceremony on Thursday in Eenhana, Ohangwena region.
Ballotti praised the university for offering sports management degrees.
He said graduates in this field play a key role in building sustainable structures, ensuring ethical governance, and creating economic opportunities through sport tourism, athlete development, and infrastructure investment.
“Personally, I am also pleased to know that Nust offers qualifications in sport management. Sport is no longer just a recreational activity; it is a multi-billion-dollar industry that includes professional leagues, amateur athletics, community programs, health promotion, and global events,” Ballotti said.
He added that a degree in sport management prepares students to handle the complex aspects of the field.
These include skills in marketing, event management, finance, sponsorship, leadership, facility operations, and policy development.
Ballotti stressed sports’ social and developmental value.
He said sport unites communities, promotes health and wellness, encourages youth engagement, and serves as a tool for inclusion and empowerment.
He noted that in Namibia, where sports participation is growing, professionalising sport-related roles is important.
