Asia's first Aquatics Training Centre unveils in Bhubaneswar

The World Aquatics Discover Water Country Leads' Training Course - Asia was officially inaugurated on Thursday at the Aquatic Centre, Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The six-day programme runs from

November 13 to 18, 2025.

Organised jointly by World Aquatics and the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS), this initiative aims to enhance the development of aquatic sports across Asia by fostering knowledge exchange, leadership development, and capacity building among administrators, coaches, and technical experts.

As part of the collaboration, World Aquatics contributes its technical know-how, curriculum framework, and expert instructors, while IIS manages all logistical arrangements in partnership with the Sports & Youth Services Department, Government of Odisha.

The Discover Water Programme, a flagship global initiative by World Aquatics, promotes water safety and aquatic participation through an inclusive, physical-literacy-based model. It focuses on empowering individuals and institutions to deliver effective water-safety and aquatic education programmes for children and communities worldwide.

Douglas Eagar, Technical Director - Swimming, World Aquatics, who expressed his delight in hosting this international training in Bhubaneswar.

"This programme brings together leaders who are shaping the future of aquatic development across Asia. Through collaboration and education, we aim to create a lasting impact on how communities engage with water and aquatic activities," he shared.

This training course seeks to cultivate national leaders who will drive the Discover Water Programme in their own countries, championing water safety, aquatic education, and community participation.

The Bhubaneswar session hosts 20 participants, two lecturers, and one World Aquatics representative from 17 countries, including India. Among them are four coaches from Odisha associated with the Odisha IIS JSW Swimming Grassroots Centres, adding a local dimension to this significant international initiative.