President John Dramani Mahama has presented a ₵500,000 reward package to the University for Development Studies (UDS) for emerging champions of the 2025 World University Football Games in China, after defeating Brazil in the finals, a historic victory that has brought immense pride and glory to Ghana.
The President made the announcement when he received the victorious UDS team at the Jubilee House in Accra. The event was attended by the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Hon. Kofi Adams, the Minister for Education, Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, and the Member of Parliament for Sagnarigu, Hon. Attah Issah, among other dignitaries.
“Beating no meaner team than Brazil”
President Mahama, visibly elated, hailed the UDS football team for their remarkable feat.
“At the presidency, we feel honoured by the presentation of this very enviable trophy you have brought to Ghana, beating no meaner team than Brazil,” he said.
“That’s an amazing achievement, and I want to express my appreciation to the management of the university, the student body, and everyone associated with UDS.”
The President recalled the founding vision of the University, paying tribute to the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, who established UDS using his $50,000 World Food Prize as seed funding.
“It started as a dream, a mustard seed so small you couldn’t imagine it would grow into the great institution UDS has become today,” he said.
“At the time, there was no public university in the northern part of Ghana. Today, all the campuses have grown into thriving universities.”
“UDS victory is a statement to the world”
President Mahama commended the UDS team for lifting Ghana’s image high on the international stage.
“This victory is not only a win for UDS; it is a statement that Ghanaian youth can compete and excel anywhere in the world when given the right support,” he stressed.
“You carried Ghana’s flag with dignity, discipline, and passion — values that define our national character.”
He encouraged the players to stay focused and build on their success.
“Let this victory be the foundation, not the finish line,” he urged. “Remain disciplined, humble, and committed to excellence — because the world is now watching you.”
Government to establish School Sports Authority
President Mahama used the occasion to outline his government’s plan to establish a School Sports Authority, which will oversee sports development from the basic to the university level.
“It will have its own budget and organize regular competitions among schools and universities to identify and nurture young talents for national teams,” he announced.
He also reaffirmed government’s commitment to building a standard sports stadium in every region, complete with modern facilities for schools and athletes.
“Our goal is to ensure that every young person, regardless of location, can access world-class training facilities,” he said.
Sports as part of Ghana’s RESET agenda
Highlighting the broader national vision, President Mahama said sports and recreation are integral to Ghana’s RESET Agenda, which focuses on national unity, discipline, and youth empowerment.
“Sports promote national cohesion and create pathways for youth employment and entrepreneurship,” he noted.
“We are developing a new ecosystem where sports contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s economic growth.”
Personal connection to UDS
The President also shared a personal connection with the university.
“My father had a farm near Yape, which I have taken over. The farm works with UDS’s animal department for practical training,” he revealed.
“I’m proud that students come there to gain hands-on experience, it reflects UDS’s commitment to practical education and community development.”
“From Tamale to the World Stage”
President Mahama concluded by congratulating the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Seidu Alhassan, the management, and the entire UDS community for their vision and leadership.
“The story of your victory can be termed ‘From Tamale to the World Stage,’” he said.
“You’ve brought glory to Ghana and renewed our faith in the power of education, youth, and sports to transform lives. Carry this victory with humility, and keep the flag of Ghana flying high.”
Story: Patrick Asford Boadu
