In a proud moment for Ghana, President John Dramani Mahama has honored the University for Development Studies (UDS) football team with a GH¢500,000 cash reward following their historic victory at the FISU World University Football Championship in Dalian, China.
UDS Makes History on the Global Stage
The UDS team stunned the world by defeating Brazil’s Paulista University 2-1 in the final, becoming the first African university to win the prestigious tournament. Their victory has sparked national pride and international recognition.
Presidential Reception at Jubilee House
During a special ceremony at the Jubilee House, the team presented their trophy to President Mahama. The President commended their achievement, saying:
“You have brought immense pride and glory to Ghana by winning the World University Football Games, beating no meaner team than Brazil.”
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He continued:
“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 opportunity and support.”
GH¢500,000 Reward Announced
President Mahama announced the financial reward with heartfelt appreciation:
“We won’t let you go empty-handed. This is 500,000 Ghana cedis to be presented to Professor Seidu Al-Hassan. It’s a reward to the team for the good job you have done.”
Plans for a School Sports Authority
The President also revealed plans to establish a School Sports Authority to promote sports development across educational institutions:
“It’s going to have a separate budget, and it will hold constant competitions amongst universities and secondary schools so that we can identify talents early and bring them into the national teams.”
A Message of Encouragement to the Youth
President Mahama urged the players to remain focused and ambitious:
“Let this victory be the foundation, not the finish line. Continue to train with humility, discipline, and ambition so that you can win many more laurels.”
He concluded with a message to all Ghanaian youth:
“Let this be a reminder that no dream is too big. If UDS can conquer the world in football, then every young Ghanaian can rise to greatness in their chosen field.”
UDS Vice-Chancellor Shares Team’s Strategy
Professor Seidu Al-Hassan, Vice-Chancellor of UDS, thanked the President and revealed that the team adopted Mahama’s “24-hour economy” philosophy as a “24-hour training plan,” which helped them stay focused and resilient throughout the tournament.
