UEW Secures 2nd Place at 15th West African University Games
The University of Education, Winneba (UEW), has clinched the second position at the 15th West African University Games (WAUG). Despite entering the multi-sport competition with only nine athletes, UEW outshone rivals with a bigger contingent to claim an impressive array of medals.
The competition, hosted at the Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile Ife, Nigeria, witnessed fierce rivalry among West African universities. UEW's small yet formidable contingent managed to secure a total of 14 medals, comprising six gold, four silver, and four bronze medals. This outstanding achievement propelled the university to the second position, narrowly trailing behind the University of Ghana, which had sent a larger team of 23 athletes.
One name stood out among the triumphant athletes—Asana Hamidu. This exceptional student not only contributed significantly to the medal tally but also emerged as the female best athlete of the entire competition. Hamidu's stellar performance included three gold medals and a bronze, making her a symbol of UEW's commitment to excellence.
The euphoria of victory echoed through the UEW campus as the triumphant team paid a courtesy visit to the University Management on Thursday, 11th January, 2023, at the North Campus for the official presentation of the 2nd-place trophy, a tangible symbol of the athletes' dedication and hard work.
During the ceremony, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Stephen Jobson Mitchual commended the sports contingent for their outstanding performance. "You've performed incredibly well. I was very optimistic about you returning victorious before you left, and you have done just that," he declared, expressing pride in the achievements of the UEW athletes.
Prof. Mitchual urged student-athletes to maintain a balance between their academic pursuits and sporting endeavours. "Combine both; make sure your studies are included," he advised, underlining the university's commitment to holistic education.
Acting Registrar Mrs. Wilhelmina Tete-Mensah brought a personal touch to the celebration, revealing her athletic background. Congratulating the team, she shared memories of her favourite events—the high jump and the 800-meter run. Mrs. Tete-Mensah emphasised the importance of academic success and expressed confidence that the skills acquired through sports would benefit the athletes in their future endeavours.
Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Victor Antwi, lauded the team for elevating the university's reputation through their commitment and skill. He encouraged them to persevere and continue contributing to the restoration of UEW's former glory on the sporting stage.
Prof. Frimpong Kaakyire Duku, Principal of the College for Distance and e-Learning (CODeL), called on the Sports Directorate to aim higher in the next competitions, urging them to present more athletes and vie for the ultimate prize.
Chairman of the Directorate of Amalgamated Clubs and Sports, Dr. Theophilus Mensah, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the University Management for their unwavering support. "We sincerely appreciate all the support and goodwill, as we hope to achieve greater laurels in the coming days to raise the flag of UEW through sports," he declared, outlining the ambitious plans.
UEW's triumph at the 15th West African University Games stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of its athletes and the unwavering support of the university community. This victory not only secures a prominent place in the annals of UEW's history but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes across the West African sub-region.
