HADA

MoU between the National Anti-Doping Organisation and the Center for Education and Rehabilitation for the Blind

A protocol of cooperation was signed by the Center for Education and Rehabilitation for the Blind (CERB) and the National Anti-Doping Organisation (EOKAN).

This agreement aims to jointly promote scientific and administrative cooperation between the two bodies, with the ultimate goal of building a healthy sports environment by enhancing the integration of people with visual impairment in sports.

More specifically:

·  Enhancing the integration of people with visual impairment in sports through accessible means of information and description of the programs and information campaigns of EOKAN in Braille Reading and Writing System.

·  Informing, supporting and educating people with visual impairment and their families about the values that sports promote, as well as the health risks posed by the use of prohibited substances.

·  Joint organisation of educational and training programs and research and exchange of know-how.
        

"For people with disabilities, the physical and sports activities are a very important means of individual development, physical empowerment, social integration and inclusion and, for these reasons, they should be encouraged. It is even more important when engaging in sports is governed by ethics, values and noble rivalry. By sealing our cooperation with EOKAN  and by organising educational seminars and information campaigns on the health consequences by the use of prohibited substances, we are sure that the goal will be achieved and we will have the best possible result", stated the Governor and Chairperson of the Board of Directors of CERB Sofia-Lefki Hamonikolau.

For his part, EOKAN's Governor Dr Grigoris Leon added: "We put our plans into effect by supporting the whole sports community in the fight against doping. We are particularly interested in people with distinct characteristics, such as people with visual impairment. In a very short time, the whole educational material of EOKAN will be available to them, as we believe that information and knowledge are valuable tools against any kind of danger. We promise that we will not stop there, but we will always be by their side and support all those who need us”.

The signing of the Memorandum took place in EOKAN premises, where the two bodies discussed further joint actions that could take place in the future.