INTERNATIONAL OLYMPIC ACADEMY 7th JOINT - IOA

for example, the NOA broadcasts a number of programmes on local
television and radio.
In Tonga, to date, eight locals have benefited from IOC
scholarships and they really made a big difference in their
performance from other local competitors in local events. Their names
are made public hence they are proclaimed as heroes. However, the
positive thing about all this is that later on they return to their mother
school to assist with training techniques.
Looking ahead towards improving the situation
On concluding this paper, I cannot but look ahead and try to
analyse how Olympic Education can be improved. Undoubtedly, the
first step is for us involved with our NOCs and NOAs to convince all
competent authorities that Olympic Education merits a place in the
country’s educational set up. Borg (1996) states that “NOAs should
also involve themselves with the conditions under which sports and
physical education are taught in schools, for it is within their power to
influence changes in this area, either directly through activities, or else
through joint initiatives with the educational authorities and ministries
of sport.” It is equally vital for all stakeholders to take part actively by
helping out in the organisation of the activities and also in giving
publicity to the same events.
Other resources, such as establishing a Sports Museum and an
Olympic Library, as is currently being done in Tonga, are also helpful
as more people could be reached and attracted to the Olympic family.
Collaboration between nations is highly solicited in order to
ensure the further expansion of Olympic Education. Over the years
many appeals have been made from members representing small
island states at the International Olympic Academy for such a need.
Thus, NOAs of small island states should seek to acquire help through
specially tailor made protocols with neighbouring countries (e.g.
Malta and Italy) or also with countries that have formerly patronised
the island (e.g Sao Tome and Principe and Portugal). Keith Joseph
(1998) from St. Vincent and the Grenadines also suggests the
formation of a regional Olympic Academy in order “to build bridges
across the chasm of Caribbean waters which currently appear to
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