While the University for Development Studies (UDS) football team dazzles on the global stage at the FISU World Football Tournament in Dalian, China, a different kind of brilliance has been unfolding behind the scenes, one not of tackles and goals, but of tireless dedication, technical excellence, and an unwavering commitment to telling the UDS story to the world.

This is a tribute to the UDS Media Team,  the unseen, uncelebrated players whose work off the pitch has brought every match, moment, and milestone to the doorsteps and digital screens of thousands in Ghana, Africa, and beyond.

At the helm of this formidable team is Ayuba Ibrahim, a quiet but firm force of leadership. Known for steering the ship from the background, Ayuba’s strategic oversight, calm presence, and unrelenting drive have ensured that every visual, post, and production reflects the dignity and excellence of the UDS brand. His ability to coordinate people, manage pressure, and keep the vision in sharp focus has been instrumental throughout the tournament.

Equally invaluable is Tahiru Abdulai, the quintessential team player who prefers the shadows to the spotlight. Despite his preference for remaining behind the curtains, Tahiru has been a bedrock of consistency and support, stepping in wherever needed, be it content creation, logistics, or morale boosting, always ensuring that the team runs like a well-oiled machine.

And then, there’s the relentless Abdul Malik, the man behind the livestream and updated on UDS WhatsApp and YouTube platforms. If thousands of Ghanaians have been able to watch the matches in real time, it is largely due to Malik’s untiring effort and technical skill. But he’s not stopping there. Malik has gone the extra mile to ensure that the grand finale of the tournament will be accessible to every UDS student: giant screens are being provided at both the Multipurpose Auditorium on the Tamale Campus and the Nyankpala Campus, turning campuses into stadiums and moments into memories.

None of this, however, would be possible without the rock-solid support of the ICT team, the silent powerhouses behind the screens. The ever-reliable Abdul Ganiyu Hussein, Hamdan Wumpeka, Kelvin, Eunice, Hajara Adam, Rumaisha Iddrisu, and Mikidad Abdulai have been on constant call, solving problems before they arise, ensuring seamless connectivity, and empowering the media team to deliver under intense deadlines. Their dedication has been nothing short of heroic.

Special mention must be made of Ayuba Bukari, who holds the fort on the UDS Facebook page, the digital frontline of the university’s communication efforts. With steady hands and creative flair, Ayuba has ensured that every post is timely, engaging, and representative of the pride UDS carries into this international tournament.

And amidst the flurry of calls, messages, and walk-ins, stand the ever-patient and tireless reception duo of Hafsa and Rashida. From answering endless enquiries to calming anxious voices and directing information flows with professionalism and warmth, they’ve been the human touch at the heart of the media operation.

Together, this dynamic group has made it possible for UDS to not only participate in the FISU World Football Tournament, but to own the narrative. While the players wear the badge on the field, it is these behind-the-scenes heroes who make sure that the badge shines brightly across the globe.

As we prepare for the final whistle, let us not forget: victories are not only earned on the pitch. They are built, frame by frame, in editing rooms; secured, message by message, on the phone; sustained, signal by signal, through tech networks.

So here’s to the UDS Media Team, the storytellers, the strategists, the silent warriors. Thank you for ensuring that the world not only watches our games, but understands our glory.

UDS is proud. Ghana is proud. Africa is watching. And you made it possible.

By Abdul-Hayi Moomen 
(UDS Media)