President John Dramani Mahama has lauded the University for Development Studies (UDS) football team for their remarkable victory at the World University Football Games, where they defeated Brazil to emerge champions.
Receiving the team at the Jubilee House on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, President Mahama described their triumph as “an extraordinary achievement that has brought immense pride and glory to Ghana.”
“This victory is not only for UDS,” he noted. “It is proof that Ghanaian youth can compete and excel anywhere in the world when given the right opportunity and support.”
As part of his appreciation, the President announced a GH¢500,000 reward to the team, to be presented to the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Seidu Al-Hassan. He also commended the university’s management and coaching staff for nurturing young talent and promoting the link between education and sports development.
Highlighting his government’s commitment to youth and sports, Mr Mahama revealed plans to establish a School Sports Authority with a dedicated budget to manage competitions from basic to tertiary levels.
“This will help us identify and develop talents early and channel them into the national teams,” he explained.
He added that sports formed a key part of his RESET agenda, which focuses on promoting unity, inclusion, and job creation through youth empowerment and sports infrastructure. The government, he said, intends to build a standard sports stadium in every region to enhance training and competition.
The President urged the UDS players to stay disciplined and pursue excellence both on and off the field. “Let this victory be the foundation, not the finish line,” he advised. “Continue to train with humility, discipline, and ambition.”
Professor Seidu Al-Hassan thanked President Mahama for his support, revealing that the team’s success was partly inspired by the President’s “24-hour philosophy,” which they adapted into a “24-hour training plan.”
He also expressed gratitude for the passage of the University for Development Studies Act, 2025 (Act 1143) and appealed for more investment in sports and academic infrastructure.
Source:Lovinghananews.com
