Anthony Baffoe, founder of the Professional Football Association of Ghana (PFAG) and a former Ghana international, has urged young footballers to prioritize education alongside their sports careers.

Baffoe, also a former CAF Deputy General Secretary, highlighted that every individual has significant potential and that a lack of formal education should not hinder success in football or other fields.

At the 2024 Afro Sport Summit in Accra, Baffoe stressed the importance of educational growth for players, regardless of their current educational background. He encouraged young players to use online platforms to gain educational certifications, citing the opportunities modern technology offers.

“Young players today are very fortunate,” Baffoe stated. “Covid has shown us that you can study and work online from anywhere. If you can spend one hour on Instagram, why not spend that time learning a course online? Don’t wait until your career is ending.”

Baffoe’s comments challenge the traditional view in Africa that football is a path for those lacking intellectual pursuits. He urged young athletes to see their careers as a platform for both personal and professional growth.

By promoting a balanced approach to career and education, Baffoe aims to inspire the next generation of footballers to excel in all areas of their lives.