The system, aiming to transition away from paper-based data collection to a more modern digital approach, enables MAs to record and monitor activities efficiently, ensuring compliance with both the AFC Anti-Doping Regulations and the World Anti-Doping Code.

Some of the salient features of the system include secure access controls, real-time data submission, as well as provisions to manage educational initiatives, programme testing, and recording anti-doping rule violations, all directed towards enhancing operational efficiency among AFC MAs.

“It was a pleasure to be part of the discussions and to learn more about this new system. I feel it has great potential to strengthen collaboration among MAs,” said Dr. Khalid Awad, Saudi Arabian Football Federation Medical Committee Member. “We can use the platform not only to safeguard the integrity of our sport but also to develop more ways to educate ourselves and help our athletes perform at their highest levels.”

Pakistan Football Federation Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Muhd Azam Khan, said: “This is an excellent step by the AFC to digitise records. It will serve as a stimulus for the growth and development of MAs. Additionally, I am confident it will motivate us to organise more capacity-building initiatives in our respective federations.”

Additionally, the webinar also served as a platform to share the findings of a survey conducted by the AFC, which aimed to identify the specific needs of MAs in strengthening their anti-doping programmes, thereby underscoring the Confederation’s unwavering commitment towards raising governance and development standards across the Continent.