The University for Development Studies (UDS) Alumni Association has hosted a dinner in honour of the University’s football team following its victory at the 12th All Africa University Games in Cairo, Egypt.

The gathering celebrated the players and coaches behind the African title and brought together University officials, alumni and members of the sporting community to reflect on a remarkable period for UDS football.

Speaking on behalf of the President of the Alumni Association, Mr. Paul Asianab, the General Secretary, Mr. Ignatius Akubire Awaafo, expressed pride in the team’s achievements at both the global and continental levels.

“When you won on the world stage, you made us proud. By returning from Cairo as African champions, you have shown that your success was no accident,” he said. “You have put the University for Development Studies on the world map, and alumni everywhere share in the joy of this achievement.”

The Registrar, Mr. Nurudeen Issah Abubakar, who accompanied the team to Cairo, recalled the determination the players displayed throughout the tournament. He said their conduct had been as impressive as their results.

“I saw a team that believed in itself and stood together when the pressure was greatest,” he said. “You represented UDS with courage and discipline. You have given the University a victory to celebrate and an example for other students to follow.”

Team captain Mohammed Asigri thanked the University and the Alumni Association for their support. He described the title as the product of a shared commitment among the players, coaches and officials.

“Every player understood what it meant to wear the UDS jersey,” he said. “There were difficult moments in Cairo, but we kept fighting for one another. We are grateful to everyone who believed in us, and we are proud to bring this trophy home.”

The Director of Sports, Mr. Shaibu Ibrahim Tanko, praised the team’s work before and during the Games. He said sustained support for university sport would help more students realise their potential.

“This achievement began long before the final whistle in Cairo. It took preparation, sacrifice and the commitment of people working behind the scenes,” he said. “These young men have shown what is possible when talent is given the support it needs.”

Former two-time Ghana Premier League goal king Coach Koboo urged the players to remain focused despite their success.

“A trophy is something to celebrate, but it must also motivate you,” he told them. “Keep training, keep learning and stay humble. The habits that brought you this far will determine how much further you can go.”

Former deputy national team coach Mr. Didi Dramani encouraged the players to treat the championship as a foundation for further growth.

“You have proved that you can compete under pressure and win,” he said. “Now challenge yourselves to become better footballers and stronger people. Listen to your coaches, look after one another and be ready for the opportunities that may come.”

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Mohammed Muniru Iddrisu, congratulated the players and coaches for bringing honour to the University. He said their achievement reflected the value of teamwork, discipline and perseverance.

“You have carried the name of UDS beyond Ghana and made this University proud,” he said. “To the players, I say: cherish this moment and let it inspire you to work even harder. To the coaches, thank you for your guidance and for believing in this team. The entire University community celebrates you.”

As part of the dinner, the Alumni Association presented a commemorative plaque and a T-shirt to each member of the team in recognition of their contribution to the African championship victory.

Story by
Abdul Hayi Moomen
(UDS Media)