FIFA, PNGFA Strengthen Instructor Capacity Through FIFA MA Instructors Course

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA), in partnership with FIFA, successfully conducted a five-day FIFA Member Association (MA) Instructors Course from 27–31 July 2026, at the PNGFA Education Centre in Lae, Morobe Province.  

The course was facilitated by FIFA Instructor Michael Fabian, with support from OFC Technical Instructor Ben Niso and Regional Fitness Instructor Kennedy Yambundimi.

A total of 25 PNGFA Member Association instructors representing all four regions of Papua New Guinea participated in the program, reinforcing PNGFA's commitment to developing a highly skilled network of coach educators across the country.

PNGFA Chief Operating Officer Stanley Khanna officially opened and closed the course, commending the participants for their commitment to advancing football education in Papua New Guinea.

The primary objective of the course was to equip PNGFA MA Instructors with the latest knowledge, teaching methodologies, and practical skills required of modern football instructors. Through a combination of classroom sessions, practical activities, and collaborative learning, participants enhanced their ability to deliver high-quality coach education programmes within their respective regions.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Mr Khanna acknowledged FIFA and the Oceania Football

Confederation (OFC) for their continued support in strengthening football development in Papua New Guinea.

"Our instructors play a critical role in shaping the next generation of coaches across the country. By investing in their education, we are investing in the future of football in Papua New Guinea. We sincerely thank FIFA and OFC for their continued commitment to developing our people and raising coaching standards,” Khanna said. 

FIFA Instructor Michael Fabian praised the participants for their enthusiasm and willingness to learn throughout the week, encouraging them to apply the knowledge gained to support the continued growth of football in their communities.

PNGFA also extends its sincere appreciation to the Presidents of Member Associations who supported the program by covering the expenses for their respective participants. Their commitment and investment in coach education continue to play a vital role in strengthening football development structures at the regional level.

The FIFA MA Instructors Course forms part of FIFA's ongoing commitment to supporting Member Associations by building the capacity of coach educators and ensuring coaching programmes are delivered to internationally recognized standards.

PNGFA remains committed to creating sustainable football development pathways through continuous education and professional development opportunities for coaches, instructors, and technical personnel across the country.