M.A. Olympic Studies Opening Ceremony endorsed by officials of the IOC, DOSB, and ASOIF

On September 3rd the Olympic Studies Centre (OSC) of the German Sport University Cologne (GSU) held its Opening Ceremony of the 9^th intake of the M.A. Olympic Studies Programme.

A notable highlight of the event was a video message from Mikaela Cojuangco Jaworski (Executive Board Member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Chair of the IOC Olympic Education Commission), who cordially welcomed the participants. Francesco Ricci Bitti (IOC Member and President of the Association of Summer Olympic International Federations (ASOIF)) delivered an insightful keynote speech on “Governance in International Sport” on-site and expressed ASOIF’s intention to support the programme. Furthermore, Mr. Ricci Bitti appraised the educational value of the Master Programme and its ongoing success. Torsten Burmester, Chief Executive of the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB), delivered an inspirational welcome address to the participants.

Distinguished Alumni, Annett Chojnacki-Bennemann, Philipp Waeffler and Nasser Majali, (Secretary General of the Islamic Solidarity Sport Federation (ISSF)), extended their best wishes for the participants' success over the next two years.

This 9th Intake comprises 28 participants from 25 countries, making up a diverse and international cohort. The week began with an official opening ceremony, where Prof. Stephan Wassong, the director of the Olympic Studies Centre at GSU, extended a warm welcome to the students.

The primary focus of the 1st Module is "Ethics, Values, and Olympic Education." The teaching team consists of Prof. Nelson Todt (Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul), Prof. Stephan Wassong, Prof. Jens Flatau (Universität Kiel), and Daniel Quanz. Throughout the week, participants will engage in a variety of activities, including lectures, group discussions, workshops and social interactions. The module will conclude with a written exam on Saturday, September 9th.