AUSC Region 5 has successfully concluded a dynamic Classification Workshop for Visually Impaired Athletes, held from 23–25 April 2025 in Gaborone, Botswana. The event brought together optometrists and technical officials from Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe as the region intensified preparations for the upcoming Region 5 Youth Games in Namibia.
Led by Ugandan Classification Specialist Joseph Sebwana, the workshop focused on equipping participants with the knowledge and tools to conduct fair, evidence-based classification of visually impaired athletes. This process ensures athletes compete against others with similar levels of visual impairment.
“We’ve taken a major step forward in leveling the playing field,” said Sebwana. “This workshop wasn’t just about technical standards, it was about recognising talent, ensuring fair representation, and building systems that respect every athlete’s right to compete.”
Throughout the three-day session, participants engaged in hands-on learning, exchanged best practices, and aligned on standardised approaches to classification. The atmosphere was collaborative, with optometrists sharing insights and experiences across borders.
“We covered key areas from athlete identification to assessment protocols,” Sebwana added. “The enthusiasm and professionalism from participants show that this region is ready to lead on inclusion.”
The workshop took place ahead of the Final Entry by Name (FEN) deadline of 30 April 2025, making it a crucial moment in Region 5’s technical preparations for the 11th Edition of the Youth Games, set for July in Windhoek and Swakopmund.
AUSC Region 5 CEO Stanley Mutoya praised the initiative as part of the region’s broader push for inclusive excellence.
“This is how we ensure no athlete is left behind. We’re proud to build capacity that enables all athletes regardless of ability to compete on fair and empowering terms.”
The event also forms part of Region 5’s larger inclusion strategy, which includes the historic debut of Special Olympics competitions in this year’s Youth Games. Additionally, an Inter-Ministerial Forum on Inclusion will be hosted during the Games to align government policy on disability and sport across the region.
As part of its Making Noise campaign, Region 5 is also preparing to launch a powerful digital awareness drive and a Live Assistive Technologies for Sport Exhibition, offering immersive experiences in adaptive sports like wheelchair basketball, blindfolded sprints, and more.
With this workshop, AUSC Region 5 has reaffirmed its position as a continental leader in building inclusive, athlete-focused systems that recognise ability and reward potential.
