Manama, Bahrain, October 30, 2022: Acting President of the Olympic Council of Asia, Raja Randhir Singh, gave a strong assurance that all National Olympic Committees will be supported by the OCA in the bid to promote and develop the women in sport movement in Asia.
In his opening address to delegates from 42 Asian NOCs gathered for the two-day OCA Gender Equity Seminar in the Bahrain capital Manama on Sunday, October 30, Mr. Randhir Singh said the OCA was determined to provide a solid platform for women to excel, not only on the field of play but also within sport organisations, administration and in the boardroom.
“I can assure you that no one, no NOC, will be left behind in our efforts to empower women and to create a level playing field,” Mr. Randhir Singh promised.
Warmly welcoming participants to the milestone event, the acting OCA chief said: “This ground-breaking seminar reflects the hard work of the OCA Gender Equity Committee, under the inspiring leadership of Sheikha Hayat bint Abdulaziz Al-Khalifa, in promoting and developing the women in sport movement throughout the continent.
“This seminar will go a long way to highlighting the major issues facing the women in sport movement of today and it will also help delegates and NOCs overcome some of these challenges by working together and giving advice and support.”
Mr. Randhir Singh reminded NOCs and their female representatives that the OCA has always placed great emphasis on women in sport in the region.
“Last week, I attended the ANOC General Assembly in Seoul, Korea. The OCA nominated five delegates to represent Asia on the ANOC Executive Council and three of the five were women. This shows how much we value the contribution of our women in sport leaders in Asia.
“It also proves that the door is open for women to take key roles at the very top of the Olympic Movement. Today, we are just at the beginning of the journey thanks to our first Gender Equity Seminar.
“I am convinced that some of you here will go on to achieve great things and reach the top of your chosen field, and the OCA is always here to help you,” added Mr. Randhir Singh as he wished all delegates a successful seminar.
