The International Federation of Muaythai Associations -IFMA- held the first OSM Seminar in Mauritius from 19 to 22 August 2025, hosted at the 7 Cascades Lodges in Henrietta, Vacoas. The initiative gathered international experts and institutional representatives in a program focused on education, training, and social responsibility in sport.
The opening day, held on 19 August, coincided with World Humanitarian Day, underlining the principles of solidarity and respect that framed the event. With this foundation, the seminar reinforced the role of sport as a tool for social cohesion and the promotion of universal values.
Training with diverse specialists
Grandmaster Dr. Ajarn Chao Wattayota, a global authority in Muaythai, led the academic program. He was joined by experts in sports psychology, nutrition, applied medicine, anti-doping, safeguarding, and sport business management. The training structure was designed for coaches from Mauritius and the wider Indian Ocean region, with the aim of strengthening competencies and raising standards in the development of the discipline.
The seminar also featured the participation of the President of ‘United Through Sports’, who emphasized in his keynote the potential of combat sports as instruments of inclusion, discipline, and community empowerment.
Institutional commitment and strategic alliances
The opening ceremony was attended by national authorities and representatives of local institutions, highlighting Mauritius’ commitment to positioning sport as a driver of social transformation. Among the associated initiatives, a partnership was formalized with PILS (Prévention Information Lutte contre le Sida), reinforcing awareness on HIV and the fight against stigma.
Within this framework, a tribute was paid to Sham Seeratam, IFMA Executive Committee Member and President of the Indian Ocean Muaythai Federation, for his contribution to the development of the discipline and the realization of this first OSM Seminar.
The role of IFMA and its projection
The IFMA President, Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan, underlined the significance of the event by stating: “Together, we have brought IFMA to new heights, and events like these show how sport can go beyond competition: it can heal, educate, and unite. I am proud to see Mauritius leading the way in this important journey.”
The IFMA Coaches Seminar 2025 established a framework built on education, innovation, and international cooperation. Through this event, IFMA strengthened its development strategy in the Indian Ocean and laid the foundation for Muaythai to be recognized not only as a sporting discipline, but also as a social and institutional force.
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