MINISTRY OF SPORTS LAUNCHES ANTI-DOPING EDUCATIONAL CAMPAIGN

Basseterre, St. Kitts, February 16, 2024 (SKNIS): The Ministry of Sports has stepped up its efforts to reduce accidental or intentional doping by local athletes by launching a new education promotional campaign.

The Anti-Doping in Sport Education Awareness Programme was launched at a significant ceremony on Thursday, February 15, 2024, at the St. Kitts and Nevis Olympic Committee Conference Centre. The event brought together senior government officials, members of the sporting fraternity and other stakeholders.

Minister of Sports, the Honourable Samal Duggins, expressed that the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis is deeply committed to fair play in sports. He recalled the pledge made one month ago at the 3rd World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Forum for Caribbean Sports Ministers in Jamaica, committing the Federation to launch an education and awareness campaign.

“Today, on February 15th, 2024, we fulfil that commitment,” he stated. “Our government is unwavering in its commitment to align the pillars established by the WADA and the UNESCO Convention Against Doping in Sports. We understand the adherence to these international standards and it is paramount in ensuring a clean and fair sporting environment for St. Kitts and Nevis.”

The “robust” programme is tailored to equip athletes, coaches, and support personnel with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions regarding clean and fair competition.

“We are committed to raising awareness about the dangers and consequences of doping. We [will] emphasize the significance of fair play and ethical behaviour in sports, and through education, we aim to cultivate a culture that values the principles of integrity and sportsmanship,” Minister Duggins stated.

The sports minister added that the emphasis on ethical leadership within sporting organisations will have a profound impact on athletes and all stakeholders. It is expected that this will help to build a firm foundation built on trust, accountability and transparency.

Minister Duggins called on all stakeholders to participate in the new education and awareness programme to help create a resilient and united front against doping.

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