President John Dramani Mahama has praised the University for Development Studies (UDS) football team for their historic victory at the World University Football Games, where they beat Brazil in the final to lift the trophy.
Speaking when the team visited him at the Jubilee House on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, the President described their feat as an “extraordinary achievement” that has brought pride to Ghana.
“You have brought immense pride and glory to Ghana by winning the World University Football Games, beating no meaner team than Brazil,” Mahama said.
“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.”
In recognition of their success, the President announced a GH¢500,000 reward for the team.
“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,” he stated.
Mahama also commended the university’s management and coaches for nurturing young athletes, emphasising the importance of university sports in promoting education, professionalism, and national unity.
He revealed plans to establish a School Sports Authority to manage competitions from basic to tertiary levels.
“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,” he explained.
According to the President, sports development is part of his government’s RESET agenda, aimed at fostering national unity, inclusion, and youth employment. He noted that new sports facilities, including standard stadiums in every region, are being developed to support training and competition.
Mahama urged the players to stay focused on both academics and athletics.
“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 advised.
UDS Vice-Chancellor, Professor Seidu Al-Hassan, thanked the President for his support and highlighted the team’s preparation methods. He said the players adopted Mahama’s “24-hour philosophy” as a “24-hour training plan,” which contributed to their success.
He also expressed gratitude to the government for passing the University for Development Studies Act, 2025 (Act 1143), and appealed for further support to expand academic and sports facilities.
Mahama concluded by urging the players to inspire others with their story.
“The story of your victory can be turned from Tamale to the world stage. You have brought glory to Ghana and renewed faith in the power of young people, education, and sports to transform lives,” he said.
