By Alan Clement
The South Sudan Football Federation (SSFF) has officially launched its first-ever CAF B-level coaching course, a landmark initiative aimed at strengthening the technical and tactical capacity of football coaches nationwide.
The four-month program is scheduled to begin on November 3, 2025, and conclude on March 19, 2026.
According to a statement released via SSFF’s communication portal, registration opened on September 16 and will remain active for two weeks with applications being processed on a rolling basis by the SSFF Education Department.
In an SSFF statement, Dr. Peter James, Director of the SSFF Education Department, described the initiative as a “significant step towards developing our football infrastructure.” He added that, “The CAF B-level course will equip our coaches with advanced techniques and knowledge, ultimately benefiting our players and the growth of the game in South Sudan.”
The course aligns with the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) standards for intermediate-level coaching and will offer a comprehensive curriculum covering tactical instruction, player development strategies, football science, and modern coaching methodologies.
To ensure quality and consistency, SSFF has outlined rigorous eligibility and selection criteria which include candidates holding valid CAF C Diploma issued within the last three years or accompanied by a refresher certificate and have completed at least one full season of active coaching. Alternatively, those who have served as SSFF Coach Educators for a minimum of one year may also qualify.
Additionally, applicants are required to submit a detailed CV, complete an online application via the SSFF website, and pass a pre-entry assessment test which will evaluate candidates on football knowledge, teaching methodology, leadership, media management, laws of the game, and general knowledge while foreign applicants must additionally present a recommendation from their national football association and receive CAF approval.
The selection considerations also include competitive playing experience, coaching at high-level divisions, academic qualifications, ICT proficiency, and strong communication and leadership skills. Candidates must also demonstrate a commitment to ongoing professional development.
Successful candidates will be required to submit a signed and stamped medical and physical fitness certificate within 14 days of selection.
Each admitted participant will receive a branded course package, including a full track suit, two polo shirts, two field shirts, two field shorts, a portable bag, and an individual tactical board.
In the guidelines shared by SSFF, the course fees are set at $1,200 USD for South Sudanese nationals and $1,500 USD for foreign participants and payment is structured in three installments of 50% upfront, followed by two 25% payments at the start of Modules Two and Three.
SSFF emphasized that the initiative reflects its broader commitment to professionalizing football in South Sudan and nurturing homegrown talent.
“We are committed to promoting education and professionalism within the sport. This program will help build a pool of qualified coaches capable of nurturing local talent and improving the overall quality of football in South Sudan,” the federation stated.
The course is expected to attract aspiring coaches from across the country, many of whom view it as a pathway to higher certification and greater impact within their communities. SSFF leadership has urged eligible candidates to seize the opportunity and invest in the future of South Sudanese football.