By Abdul Hayi Moomen | UDS Media

It was a chance encounter that turned into yet another moment of pride and promise for the triumphant University for Development Studies (UDS) football team, winners of the 2025 FISU Universities World Football Championship in Dalian, China.

As the team waited at the Kotoka International Airport for their flight back to Tamale, still glowing in the euphoria of their world-beating performance, they literally bumped into the Honourable Minister for Communications and Digital Innovation, Hon. Sam George.

The surprise meeting drew excitement and cheers across the terminal as the players, still clad in their UDS tracksuits, surrounded the Minister for photos, handshakes, and hearty laughter.

Hon. Sam George, visibly impressed by the team’s composure and humility, told them he had followed their historic victory on television and was “deeply inspired by their courage, teamwork, and national pride.”

“You have not just lifted the name of UDS high; you have brought immense glory to Ghana,” the Minister said with admiration. “As a Ministry that believes in the power of innovation and education, we will support each player and member of the technical team with a brand-new laptop to aid your academic and administrative work.”

The announcement was met with spontaneous applause and salulations from the players and officials, with several team members visibly moved by the unexpected generosity.

Responding to the gesture, the Director of Sports and Head Coach of the team, Mr. Shaibu Ibrahim Tanko, expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the university. “We are truly grateful to the Honourable Minister for this thoughtful gesture,” he said. “When received, these laptops will go a long way to enhance the educational pursuits of our student-athletes and strengthen the technical operations of our team.”

He added that the encounter was “yet another reminder of how the team’s victory has opened doors and drawn goodwill from all corners of the country.”

The UDS team’s historic triumph over Brazil in the FISU World University Football Championship has captured the hearts of Ghanaians, uniting the nation in pride.

Their airport encounter with the Minister only added another unforgettable chapter to their remarkable homecoming story, a story that continues to inspire hope and excellence across the country.