Uganda to receive IRL Technical Education as Kenyan educators aim to qualify

• In 2025 IRL launched the most expansive investment into grassroots game development in its history
• The technical education project objective is to ensure that every IRL member nation has the capacity to produce its own coaches and match officials, through accredited local educators and, ultimately, tutors (who qualify educators)
• The IRL's system prioritises continuing technical development between courses (the ‘CATO’ system), to ensure that acquired knowledge turns into maturing understanding of the game, higher technical standards and an authentically developed sport
• The project is underpinned by state-of-the-art e-learning management systems and coaching resources

Rugby League Uganda will receive its first Level 1 Coach and Level 1 Match Official courses on June 12-13 at the Elite High School, Entebbe.

More than 10 candidates for each course will take part, ensuring that Uganda will be in a position to apply for Affiliate Membership of IRL once the candidates have completed their post-course CATO work to become accredited.

The federation currently meets all the other criteria, including five-team men's and women's domestic championships and more than 500 registered players.

The participating clubs are Elite Rugby League Club, Bwerenga Rugby League Club, Saaza Rugby League Club, SACS Rugby league Club, Musoto Rugby league club. A sixth club, Bududa Dragons RLC, is joining the competition this season.

The Ugandan championship is already a proven breeding ground for talent, with Peace Lekuru last season scoring seven tries in 10 Women's Super League games for York Valkyrie.

“As we prepare for the courses, I am excited to see 24 passionate male and female participants ready to invest in their development and the future of our sport,” said Fortunate Irankunda, Rugby League Uganda's Rugby Director.

“Their commitment reflects the growing enthusiasm and dedication towards raising the standards of rugby league in Uganda,”

In another first, the courses will be delivered by representatives of neighbouring Kenya Rugby League Federation, with Level 1 Educator John Mbai set to lead the coaching course, whilst Level 1 Educator Brian Odiwuory will lead the Match Officials Course, assisted by compatriots Scott Figman Lubukha and Esther Nyambura.

IRL Senior Match Officials Tutor Phil Smith will also be in attendance to observe the Match Officials delivery.

Odiwuory is seeking to be signed off as the Middle East-Africa region’s first Level 1 Match Official Tutor and Figman Lubukha and Nyambura are aiming to qualify as Level 1 Educators as a result of the course, meaning that KRLF will have surpassed the technical education standard required for IRL Full Membership.

“This course presents a unique opportunity for our coaches, match officials, administrators, and emerging leaders to learn from experienced rugby league educators from Kenya and the United Kingdom," Irankunda said.

"The exchange of knowledge, experience, and best practices will undoubtedly strengthen our technical capacity and contribute to the continued growth of the game in Uganda.

“This course is more than a two-day educational program; it is a significant milestone in our journey towards a stronger and more professional rugby league environment.

“The knowledge gained will have a lasting impact on our clubs, schools, and national programs as we prepare for the next level of growth and success. We look forward to embracing this opportunity and building an even brighter future for Rugby League Uganda."