The JUA welcomes a series of significant initiatives announced by the International Judo Federation and its partners in Kazakhstan, further demonstrating the country’s growing commitment to the development of judo beyond competition and into the fields of education, leadership, and public service.
The announcements were made during the recent Qazaqstan Barysy Grand Slam in Astana, where Kazakhstan once again showcased its dedication to the advancement of judo at both national and international levels.
Arman Abeuov Appointed Head of the IJF Military Commission
A major development was the appointment of Arman Abeuov as Head of the IJF Military Commission, operating under the IJF Military and Police Commission.
Currently serving as Chairperson of the Sports Committee of the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Kazakhstan’s Central Sports Club, Mr. Abeuov brings extensive experience in military sports administration and a distinguished sporting career to the role. A former Asian champion and ten-time national champion of Kazakhstan, he is also a two-time Veterans World Champion, having won titles in Abu Dhabi in 2022 and Las Vegas in 2024.
His appointment reflects the increasing importance of judo within military and public service institutions and reinforces the sport’s educational values of discipline, respect, courage, and responsibility.
Judo Introduced into Kazakhstan’s Military Education System
During the Grand Slam weekend, an important Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the IJF, the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and the Jenys Judo Sports Club.
The agreement will see the implementation of the IJF’s “Judo in Military Schools and Academies” programme throughout Kazakhstan’s military education system. The initiative aims to provide military students with both physical and educational development through judo, promoting self-discipline, resilience, leadership, and mutual respect.
The programme represents a long-term commitment to integrating judo into military training structures while strengthening cooperation between educational institutions and the judo community.
The agreement was signed by Kazakhstan’s Minister of Defence, Kosanov Dauren Zhumatayevich, on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, Almaz Alsenov, Chairman of the Board of Jenys and Advisor to the IJF President, and IJF President Marius Vizer.
Strengthening the Connection Between Judo and Higher Education
A second Memorandum of Understanding was also concluded between the IJF, the Ministry for Science and Higher Education of Kazakhstan, and the Jenys International Sports Foundation.
The partnership seeks to expand judo programmes within universities and higher education institutions across Kazakhstan, recognising the role of judo as both a sport and a valuable educational tool.
Under the agreement, universities will be encouraged to establish dedicated judo structures, support coach education, organise competitions and events, and explore the introduction of both practical and theoretical judo courses. The IJF will provide technical expertise, coach education support, competition assistance, and guidance for future development projects.
Speaking on the initiative, IJF President Marius Vizer highlighted the educational mission of judo, noting that the principles established by Jigoro Kano continue to offer young people valuable opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and community engagement.
A Model for Judo Development
These initiatives collectively illustrate a comprehensive approach to judo development that extends well beyond elite competition. By integrating judo into military academies, universities, and public institutions, Kazakhstan is creating new pathways for young people to benefit from the sport’s educational and social values.
The Judo Union of Asia commends the efforts of the International Judo Federation, the Government of Kazakhstan, the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry for Science and Higher Education, and the Jenys organisations for their commitment to expanding the role of judo in society.
These projects align closely with the vision of the Asian judo community to promote judo not only as a competitive sport but also as a powerful vehicle for education, character development, and social responsibility throughout the continent.
Source and Photos: International Judo Federation (IJF)