VUB opens martial arts expertise center CEMAS in Brussels: martial arts as a lever for social inclusion

On September 23, 2025, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) officially opened the Centre for Martial Arts and Science (CEMAS) — Belgium’s first martial arts expertise center. The 800 m² facility was made possible thanks to the support of VUB, Sport Vlaanderen, the Flemish Brussels Fund, the Flemish Community Commission, and the Flemish Boxing League.

A center where sport, education, and research meet

CEMAS combines sports infrastructure, education, and scientific research, using martial arts as a driver for social impact among Brussels youth. The center features a boxing gym with a fixed ring and punching bags, and a large mat room for disciplines such as judo, karate, taekwondo, and tai chi. Brussels-based martial arts clubs and the Flemish Boxing League will host training sessions and educational programs there.

Martial arts with social value

CEMAS is more than just a sports facility — it is an academic hub where education and research come together. The VUB research group SPORT & SOCIETY will guide local clubs and train coaches to use martial arts as a tool for social engagement. Studies show that martial arts can be a powerful means to reach young people in vulnerable situations and strengthen their personal and social development.

Professor Marc Theeboom, project leader, explains:“Many young people in Brussels are drawn to martial arts, particularly the more intense disciplines. Often, these are youths growing up in challenging circumstances. We can harness that attraction in a positive way. By equipping coaches with the right methods, we not only help these young people progress athletically, but also improve their opportunities in education, employment, and society at large. Martial arts can truly become a lever for inclusion in Brussels.”

Investing in young people

According to Cieltje Van Achter, Flemish Minister for Brussels and Media, CEMAS represents an investment in the city’s future:

“With CEMAS, we are building the future of Brussels — a future in which young people, regardless of background, can grow within the Flemish community. This center is much more than a sports hall. By linking sport to coaching, connection, and opportunities to practice Dutch, we give young people direction and strengthen the Dutch-speaking network in Brussels. The Flemish Community’s strong investment in this much-needed infrastructure makes this project even more significant.”

Collaboration with the Flemish Boxing League

Beyond its social mission, CEMAS also supports elite sports. The Flemish Boxing League (VBL) will establish its top-level operations at the center, working closely with VUB researchers on mental coaching, injury prevention, and fatigue management.

Ibrahim Emsallak, general director of the VBL and VUB alumnus, emphasizes the value of this collaboration:“It’s very important for us to offer our members an academic environment. Our young boxers can receive scientific guidance within their sport, and it also makes the university environment more accessible to them — something that could help shape their future.”

With CEMAS, VUB aims to use martial arts as a catalyst for inclusion and equal opportunities, contributing to a stronger and more resilient Brussels.

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