The historic triumph of the University for Development Studies (UDS) at the just-ended FISU World Universities Football Tournament in Dalian, China, will be remembered not only for the flawless performance of the players, who went unbeaten throughout the competition, but also for the invaluable presence and support of the University’s Sports Advisory Committee.

Led by its Chairman, Prof. Elliot Haruna Alhassan who also doubles as the Pro Vice-Chancellor of UDS, the Committee was in full force to stand by the team during the tournament. Other members present included the Registrar, Mr. Nurudeen Issah Abubakar; the Director of Finance, Dr. Mohammed Hardi Shaibu; former Vice Dean of the School of Medicine, Prof. Gideon Helegbe; and the Committee Secretary, Mr. Yussif Abdulah.

Their presence, both symbolic and practical, made a lasting impression on the players and technical team. Beyond cheering from the stands, the Committee provided the assurance that the University’s leadership stood solidly behind the team. Players openly admitted that having senior officials by their side during every game gave them a renewed sense of motivation and confidence, knowing the entire UDS community was with them in spirit.

But the Committee’s role extended far beyond moral support. In moments when unexpected challenges threatened to disrupt preparations, the members stepped in decisively. They mobilized funds to cover contingencies such as the sudden shortage of medical supplies for injured players. They worked swiftly to reorganize feeding and accommodation arrangements when flight delays disrupted schedules. They even addressed pressing academic concerns of student-athletes back home, ensuring that the players’ focus remained firmly on the competition.

“These were issues the technical handlers could not have resolved alone,” a member of the technical team admitted. “The Committee’s timely interventions lifted a heavy burden from us and allowed the players to concentrate on winning matches.”

The UDS players, who never lost a single match during the tournament, attributed part of their resilience and determination to the Committee’s constant presence. “Each time we saw them in the stands, it reminded us that we were not just playing for ourselves, but for the entire University. That alone gave us extra energy to fight till the end,” one of the players said with pride.

The Sports Advisory Committee of UDS plays a vital role in shaping the University’s sports development agenda. Its mandate includes advising Management on strategies to strengthen sports infrastructure, overseeing the welfare of student-athletes, and ensuring that sports remain a key pillar in the University’s academic and extracurricular landscape. Its performance in Dalian reaffirmed its significance as more than just an advisory body. It is a hands-on partner in student success.

As UDS basks in global glory, the Committee’s presence will remain a shining example of how institutional leadership can directly impact student achievement on the world stage.

The victorious UDS team is scheduled to arrive back in Ghana on Sunday, October 5, 2025, where they will be received with the honor befitting world champions.

Story by
Abdul Hayi Moomen