Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, the President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), has urged the leadership of the Referees Department to implement regular computerized theoretical examinations for all referees.

This initiative aims to ensure that referees remain well-versed in the rules and regulations governing football.

Speaking at a one-day training workshop for Referees Managers from the ten Regional Football Associations in Accra, President Okraku emphasized the importance of conducting theoretical exams at least three times a year.

He highlighted the need for referees to continuously update their knowledge to uphold the standards of officiating.

President Okraku noted that while physical fitness has traditionally been emphasized, it is essential for referees to have a deep understanding of the laws of the game.

“The Regional Referees Managers have to be honest and more scientific. There should be mandatory theoretical exams conducted three times in a year with these exams being computerized for all referees across the country'', he said.

‘’In the past we dwelt a lot on physical training as a yardstick to determine the quality of referees; over time, we realized that they tended to be physically fit but but did not have a firm grasp of the laws governing game”, President Okraku quipped.

By introducing computerized theoretical exams, the GFA aims to enhance the quality of refereeing across the country.

Furthermore, President Okraku underscored the GFA's commitment to delivering quality football and fostering a vibrant footballing environment.

He emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for young boys and girls from all regions of Ghana to participate in football.

The "Catch Them Young referees" initiative, launched in 2020, has been instrumental in nurturing young talent in refereeing at the District and Regional Football Association levels.

The policy aims to train and develop passionate young individuals between the ages of 12-17 in the field of refereeing.

Under this program, the GFA has trained approximately 1,200 young referees nationwide, furthering the association's goal of promoting inclusivity and excellence in Ghanaian football officiating.