Today, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev presented state
awards to athletes and coaches who represented Kazakhstan at the Summer
Olympics in Paris. The Head of State emphasized that strong will and relentless
hard work were components of each victory and expressed gratitude to the
athletes, coaches and all those who contributed to the athletes’ preparation,
particularly the National Olympic Committee.
«At the Olympic Games, each country is represented by its
top athletes. Winning an international tournament and emerging as the best
among thousands of competitors is a formidable challenge. In such global-scale
competitions, each medal holds special significance for the country. Today, I
want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all our athletes who have won awards
at the Olympics. Achieving victories on the world stage requires immense effort
not only from the athletes but also from numerous experts in the field,» Tokayev
said.
The Head of State noted that, despite the victories,
professional sports face a number of serious issues that have accumulated over
time and highlighted the need for comprehensive reforms. The relevant ministry
should primarily conduct a detailed analysis of systemic shortcomings in the
development of Olympic sports. Additionally, President Tokayev emphasized the
need to abandon the practice of naturalizing foreign athletes and instead focus
on supporting domestic athletes and coaches. Priority should be given to mass
and youth sports. State support should also be extended to boarding schools and
vocational education institutions that train Olympic reserves.
«Such educational institutions should be present in all
regions. A new Olympic training base has recently opened in Almaty, providing
the highest level of training for our athletes. Additionally, the National
Sports University is currently under construction in Astana. This institution
will not only offer educational programs but also develop a modern research
center. I am confident that these measures will ensure the high-quality
training of the next generation of Kazakh athletes - future Olympic champions,»
Tokayev added.
The Head of State instructed to develop a
unified standard for athlete training and the qualification of coaches and
referees based on modern techniques. Funding for national federations should be
revised, and the government should restore the vertical management structure in
the sports sector. At the end of the meeting, President Tokayev wished success
to Kazakh Paralympians, who are yet to demonstrate their achievements. Notably,
the Paralympic Games in Paris will commence tomorrow, August 28.
Web-editor: Гайни Жумабек
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