On a beautiful Friday afternoon, April 3, 2026, more than 300 family members and guests watched as 151 students of Arag Taekwondo Academy received new belt ranks during the academy’s graduation ceremony. The event took place at Boccio
Figla (Asmara Basketball Arena) around 4:00 PM. Since its founding on August 1, 2024, in the capital city of Asmara, Arag Taekwondo Academy has been providing training rooted in a deep moral philosophy that goes beyond mere physical fighting to encompass character, discipline, and respect—aiming to raise competent youth in all aspects of life The name “Arag” is derived from the Arag region, where Eritrean commandos were trained in 1979. Those commandos later undertook a miraculous operation in 1984 that saw to the demise of over 30 war jets at the then Ethiopian Air Force Base in Asmara. In honor of these heroes and this historic place, the name was chosen.
This year, the taekwondo academy held the graduation ceremony of its third batch. The ceremony included board breaking, poomsae (forms), acrobatics, sparring demonstrations, and a synchronized routine performed by a special demonstration team Master Qasim Ahmed, founder of Arag Taekwondo Academy in Asmara, delivered the opening speech at the graduation ceremony, addressing the audience and the new graduates. He began with warm greetings to the Chairman of the National Union of Eritrean Youth and Students, Mr. Saleh Ahmadin, officials from the central office, regional branch heads, guests, andparents. He proudly noted that in the first and second batches, 124 trainees graduated with yellow and blue belts. In this third batch alone, 151 trainees earned their ranks: 99 with yellow belts, 29 with blue belts, and 23 with red belts. Master Qasim emphasized that sport—especially taekwondo— develops the mind rather than
hindering it. He explained that it increases focus, improves memory, boosts positive energy, and stimulates the brain through hormones such as dopamine. Beyond physical training, taekwondo fosters discipline, responsibility, self confidence, and friendship. He highlighted that students who balance study and sport excel academically, pointing to graduates who achieved more than 90% in their school results. Looking ahead, Arag Academy has begun introducing academic and professional enrichment programs, including Arabic, English, mathematics, graphic design, and more. Master Qasim expressed gratitude to the National Union of Eritrean Youth and Students and to all partners who supported the academy’s mission.
During the belt promotion awards, 148 students received red belts, 26 blue belts, and 99
yellow belts (transitioning from white). Additionally, 36 students were awarded for excellence in power and Taeguk (forms) skills, and 27 students were awarded for excellence in their regular school academics. The prizes included gold, silver, and bronze medals for students, a taekwondo uniform for teachers, and appreciation letters for partners. Mr. Ahmadin told the graduates that they would go on to become teachers and assistants across the country, helping to build a strong, highly disciplined youth. He reminded everyone that this initiative requires the collaborative effort of all. Once again, he congratulated them, acknowledging that the road ahead is long and tough, and urged them to be ready. He hoped they would serve as examples of service and discipline. Until they finish what they have started, he assured them, the association will always be by their side. He urged them once more to continue on this path.
Finally, the graduation ceremony ended with warm applause from the participants and graduates. As a martial arts and discipline center, Arag Taekwondo Academy will continue to teach students all over the country.
