Local aikido martial arts courses get accreditation

In what is thought to be a first for a Maltese martial arts course, the National Commission for Further and Higher Education (NCFHE) has accredited two courses in the Japanese martial art of Aikido developed by the aikido Yamato Dojo school, Hamrun, in the Malta Qualifications Framework (MQF).

One of Malta’s leading aikido schools, the Aikido Yamato Dojo is a branch dojo of the French Bu-Iku-Kan school based in Aix-en-Provence, and is already recognised by the French educational system. It has been running courses in aikido for the past seven years.

Aikido is a Japanese martial art and a spiritual path. It is unique in its subtle techniques designed to neutralise aggression by redirecting aggressive force. Aikido develops physical well-being and mental stability while encouraging a better knowledge of oneself.

Its non-violent principles are particularly suitable in real-life situations where aggression is most frequently not physical but emotional and mental. It can be learnt and applied by anyone, regardless of gender and age.

The MQF is based on the European Qualification Framework (EQF), and credits can be utilised or transferred to other academic courses provided by colleges and universities that recognise the EQF.

The NCFHE recently also granted a licence to the Aikido Yamato Dojo as a further education institution.

Kevin Bonanno, president of the Aikido Yamato Dojo, said: “This is a significant achievement for us and for the aikido community. It provides new opportunities for local and foreign students. It recognises the utility of learning aikido and acknowledges the delivery capability of the school.”

The school runs regular courses for children, teenagers and adults led by qualified teachers from Japan, and organises international seminars twice a year.

For further details call 9989 9733.

www.aikidomalta.net