University college Aspira proudly hosted another world known lecturer who held the lecture for Aspira students and professors, as well as for all interested participants on April, 8th 2014. Prof. Sebastian Kaiser, PhD, professor from the SRH Heidelberg University, gave a public lecture on “Socio-economic impacts of major sporting events”. Professor Kaiser received his doctorate degree in the field of sports economics and sociology. He is engaged in research work at the Institute of Sports Economics and Management at the German Sports University in Cologne. He is also the editor of the Journal of Sports Sciencia.
In his lecture, Prof. Kaiser, PhD has defined the social and economic impacts of major sporting events and methods that affect the outcome of such impacts. Aspira students participated in the lecture with great interest. Prof. Kaiser, PhD established good communication and interaction with students. He also motivated them to participate in the discussion. Participants were divided into two groups and discussed the positive and negative effects of major sporting events. They also had the opportunity to discuss and present their own opinions on the issues.
Prof. Kaiser emphasised that the positive effects of major sporting events affects the improvement of living of the local population, the popularisation of active sports, infrastructure, tourism development, job creation, and stands out as a key element of national pride.
During the lecture, the professor placed a special focus on the great responsibility that the host country has when it comes to the organisation of major sporting events. Such organisations require large financial investments and preparations at all levels, from local to national. Negative effects are difficult to predict and plan, but he singled out the security aspect and the high expenses for the host country. Participants were acquainted with the data types and the calculation of income and expenses that the organisers of major sporting events meet with.
All in all, the lecture was very interesting and instructive and Prof. Kaiser’s interactive and professional approach stimulated a desire for further education in the field of sports economics among the Aspira students.