Ghana more competent, quality, qualified coaches - Dr Prosper Narteh Ogum

Black Starlets head coach Dr Prosper Narteh Ogum has called for greater investment in qualified coaches at the grassroots level, arguing that Ghana's youth football system needs stronger technical expertise to produce future talent.

Speaking on the sidelines of the Ghana Football Association's 32nd Ordinary Congress at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram on Thursday, Ogum said improving coaching standards at the foundation level should be a priority.

His remarks come against the backdrop of mixed fortunes for Ghana's youth national teams.

While the Black Maidens (Under-17 women) and Black Princesses (Under-20 women) have secured qualification for their respective FIFA World Cups, the men's Under-17 and Under-20 teams have not reached those tournaments since 2015 and 2017, respectively.

Ogum, who previously coached Asante Kotoko, said many coaches working at grassroots level lack the qualifications needed to develop young players effectively.

"As far as the youth system is concerned, I think we need more competent, quality, qualified coaches at the grassroots," he told reporters.

"Unfortunately, we don't have them there."

He acknowledged the dedication of many grassroots coaches but argued that passion alone is not enough.

"Those who are at the grassroots are those who have passion for the game, and some of them even have no licence. I don't think it is the best for our football."