STEP partners with Angkor Tiger FC for youth development programme
STEP, a division of The Hindu Group, will partner with the Youth Development and Academy teams of the Cambodian Premier League team Angkor Tiger Football Club based in the city of Siem Reap. Angkor Tiger currently competes in the top division, while the academy teams (U-16 and U-19) participate in the national Cambodian Youth League.
As part of the partnership, STEP will provide training to the Academy's players, focusing on vital English language speaking and communication skills, which will be delivered via STEP's proprietary learning platform. The partnership will help young academy players develop their non-football skills with improved English language communication, and enhance their future employment prospects.
Speaking on the partnership, Pundi Sriram, Business Head of STEP, said, 'We are very excited to be a part of this partnership and bring our skilling programs to youth in Cambodia and help them achieve their long-term career aspirations.'
Rohit Ramesh, Director of The Hindu Group, added, 'STEP, with their dedicated proprietary platform, will be able to provide curated English skill training solutions to the Academy players, which is a crucial necessity for their futures.'
Sudhir Menon, Director of SkaSports, an Indian firm that owns a minority stake in the club, explained that the club has a responsibility for the holistic development of the players. 'Globally, only 1% of the players who are part of Elite Youth Development programs get a professional contract. As a club, we have a responsibility to every boy who wears our club jersey to prepare him for challenges both on and off the field. STEP's partnership is an initiative in that direction, to further empower and enhance their skills to succeed as professionals.'
Akihiro Kato, Owner and Chairperson of Angkor Tiger FC, emphasised that this partnership is a crucial step in empowering the youth. 'This is a significant step forward in our mission to empower Cambodian youth through football. By enhancing their English communication skills, we are giving our players a better chance to succeed not only in football but also in life.
Takahisa Kiyone, Chief Operating Officer, Angkor Tiger FC, said, 'With STEP's expertise, our academy players will gain vital language skills that will support them in international opportunities and beyond the pitch. We are proud to provide a more holistic education environment for the next generation'.
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