The programme began with an ice-breaking session that set expectations and laid the foundation for the road ahead, before participants were briefed on key topics such as the latest best practices of officiating, and amendments to the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system regulations.

Over the next four days, the participants were divided into two groups where their fitness levels and theoretical knowledge were closely examined.

With the Laws of the Game being among the major subjects under the spotlight, the match officials took part in indepth discussions to explore various topics, ranging from penalty area incidents and violations such as offsides and handballs to tactical offences such as Stopping a Promising Attack (SPA) and Denial of an Obvious Goal-Scoring Opportunity (DOGSO).

Meanwhile, during practical sessions, the referees underwent a range of fitness tests, including the Yo-Yo Intermittent Test and the Repeated Sprint Ability Test as well as other activities directed towards improving speed, endurance, and agility.

Additionally, the referees also received hands-on experience with the extensive use of VAR simulators which enabled them to sharpen their decision-making skills.

Finally, with the graduation ceremony of Batch 4 slated to take place later this year, the participants also got the opportunity to hear from AFC Referees Academy alumni, who shared their experiences and insights, providing inspiration and guidance to the current batch as their educational journey approaches its end.

The AFC is the first Confederation to launch a dedicated academy for referees. Since its launch in 2017, as many as 201 men and women referees from 39 AFC Member Associations have graduated or are in the midst of benefitting from the AFC Referee Academy’s all-inclusive curriculum.

The Academy’s role in nurturing Asia’s best refereeing talent has been tangible, with 30 current Academy referees registered on the FIFA international list, as well as 48 alumni already part of the Elite Panel.