Student-athletes from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi (KNUST) won 11 gold medals at the West Africa University Games, finishing 11th among 23 participating universities.
The eight-member contingent competed in women’s tennis and men’s athletics at Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria, winning 23 medals: 11 gold, nine silver and three bronze.
The team presented its results during a courtesy call on the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Christian Agyare, and thanked the University’s management for supporting its participation.
The Director of Sports, Dr Timothy Kwabena Mensah, commended the athletes, noting that each team member had won at least one medal.
“Considering the number of athletes we sent, we did exceptionally well. We had eight athletes, and collectively, they won 11 gold medals, in addition to silver and bronze medals. This demonstrates the quality of talent we have at KNUST,” he said.
Sarah Agyemang won three gold medals, while Florence Agyemang secured three gold and two silver medals. Helena Amono Gyanifia Sarfo won two gold medals, and Abraham Aisaha earned two gold, one silver and one bronze.
Tracy Ampah claimed one gold and two silver medals, while Dickson Okyere won one silver and two bronze. Richmond Opoku secured two silver medals, and Sekina Adams added one silver.
Dr Mensah said KNUST had some of Africa’s finest university-level sporting talent, particularly in tennis and athletics. He thanked management for facilitating the team’s participation and called for continued investment in student sports to strengthen the University’s performance at international competitions.
Professor Agyare congratulated the athletes, saying their achievements showed how determination and the effective use of available resources could deliver results.
“Despite your small numbers, you were able to make a significant impact. That is what we are training you to do. Whatever challenges you face, the impact you make is what matters,” he said.
He encouraged the student-athletes to remain committed to their sporting careers while maintaining strong academic performance, saying both were essential to preparing them for opportunities beyond university.
Professor Agyare assured the team of management’s continued support within available resources and urged the athletes to develop their skills to compete at higher levels.
“Do not relegate either your academics or your sports to the background. Both are very important. We will continue to support you, particularly as you work towards reaching the world stage,” he added.
The Vice-Chancellor also acknowledged the contributions of the coaches, sports administrators and the Sports Management Committee to the team’s success.
Story: Ama Pokuaa Mensah Photos: Isaac Kwaku Duah
