The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), University for Development Studies (UDS) branch, has extended a gesture of support to the UDS soccer team as it gears up for the prestigious Universities World Cup in China later this month.

On Monday, September 1, 2025, the President of UTAG-UDS, Prof. Mahamudu Akurugu, presented two sets of jerseys to the team on behalf of the entire UTAG fraternity. He was accompanied by Dr. Margaret Akuriba, the Women Executive Officer of the Association.

Speaking at the brief but inspiring presentation ceremony, Prof. Akurugu praised the team for making history by becoming the only African university to qualify for the global tournament.

“Your qualification alone has already sent a strong message to the world—that African universities are not only excelling in academic research and teaching but are also nurturing exceptional sportsmen and women who contribute meaningfully to society and industry,” Prof. Akurugu said.

He commended the technical team for their tireless work in steering the players to this milestone and assured them of UTAG’s continued support.

“We are proud of the timeless efforts of your technical handlers, and as an Association, we pledge to do more substantially to ensure that this success story continues,” he added.

Receiving the jerseys on behalf of the team, Mr. Ibrahim Tanko, Director of Sports at UDS, expressed profound gratitude to UTAG for what he described as a morale-boosting gesture.

“This support strengthens our confidence as we prepare for the World Cup. We are going to China not just to participate but to compete and we are confident of bringing the ultimate trophy home to Africa, to Ghana, and to UDS in particular,” Mr. Tanko declared.

The UDS team will fly the flag of Africa high when the Universities World Cup kicks off later this month in China, with their new jerseys symbolizing not just a uniform, but a spirit of unity, pride, and determination.

Stror by: Abdul Hayi Moomen
UDS Media