President John Dramani Mahama has honored the University for Development Studies (UDS) with a GH¢500,000 prize following their historic triumph at the 2025 FISU World University Games.
UDS made history by becoming the first African university to win the FISU World University Football Tournament held in China.
The team defeated Brazil’s Paulista University 2–1 in a dramatic final. After conceding a goal in the opening 10 seconds of the match, UDS equalised in stoppage time through captain Mohammed Sulemana and went on to secure the win in extra time with a decisive goal from Ezedeen Alhassan.
President Mahama commended the team for their outstanding performance and acknowledged the honour they have brought to Ghana. He described the victory as a significant milestone for both the university and the country’s sporting history.
The GH¢500,000 reward is in recognition of the team’s hard work, determination, and their role in raising Ghana’s profile on the international stage. The support is also expected to encourage continued excellence in university sports.
The team returned home on Sunday, October 5, to a jubilant welcome at Kotoka International Airport, where supporters, students, and well-wishers gathered to celebrate their achievement.