President John Dramani Mahama Hosts UDS World Universities Football Champions at the Jubilee House
President John Dramani Mahama has commended the University for Development Studies (UDS) football team for their historic win at the World University Football Games, where they defeated Brazil’s Paulista University 2-1 in the final. The team paid a courtesy call on President Mahama at the Jubilee House on Tuesday, October 7, 2025.
Describing their triumph as “an extraordinary achievement that has brought immense pride and glory to Ghana,” President Mahama praised the team for their determination and teamwork. He announced a cash reward of GH¢500,000 to the team, presented to the Vice-Chancellor of UDS, Professor Seidu Al-Hassan. “This victory is not only a win for UDS. It is a statement that Ghanaian youth can compete and excel anywhere in the world when given the right opportunity and support,” President Mahama said.
The UDS team made history by becoming the first African university to win the prestigious tournament. Their victory has sparked national pride and international recognition, with the team receiving accolades for their resilience and skill. The team’s captain, Mohammed Sulemana, equalized in stoppage time before Ezedeen Alhassan sealed the win with a spectacular strike from a corner kick in extra time. President Mahama emphasized the importance of sports in promoting national unity, social inclusion, and youth employment. He announced plans to establish a School Sports Authority to manage competitions from basic to tertiary levels, with a separate budget to identify and develop talents early. The government also intends to build standard sports stadiums in every region to support training and competitions.
President Mahama urged the players to remain focused and ambitious, saying, “Let this victory be the foundation, not the finish line. Continue to train with humility, discipline, and ambition so that you can win many more laurels.” He encouraged the team to use their story as a beacon of inspiration for young Ghanaians, highlighting the potential for greatness in their chosen fields.
