April 14, 2026
The University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) School of Sports and Exercise Medicine (SSEM), commemorated the Second International Day of Sport for Development and Peace in Ghana on Thursday, April 9, 2026. The event, held at the SBBS Auditorium on the main campus at Sokode-Lokoe, Ho, was themed “Sport and Exercise for Economic Growth, Recreation and Healthy Nation.”
In his welcome address, Professor Nii Korley Kortei, Dean of SSEM, underscored the transformative power of sport, describing it as a unifying force that transcends borders and cultures. He emphasized the importance of training healthcare professionals to champion holistic sports development and empowering athletes to positively impact lives and communities.
Delivering the keynote address, Honourable James Gunu, Volta Regional Minister, highlighted the economic and social potential of sports. He noted that beyond competition, sports create jobs, improve health and strengthen communities. He pointed to the government’s 24-hour economy policy as a platform for expanding opportunities in fitness centres, recreational parks, and sporting events. Hon. Gunu assured participants of government support for youth-focused employment and skills training in coaching, fitness, and sports management, while calling on the private sector to partner in expanding sports infrastructure. He also announced plans for a multi-purpose facility and a FIFA Category 2 stadium in the Volta Region.
Professor Lydia Aziato, Vice Chancellor of UHAS, stressed the need to train health professionals capable of assessing, diagnosing and supporting athletes and the wider public. She urged students to value their studies at SSEM and appealed for stakeholder support in equipping the school with a state-of-the-art laboratory, scholarships and sponsorships to enhance training.
Representing the Registrar, Mr. Godfred Amoah, Director of Human Resource, reaffirmed UHAS’ commitment to sports and exercise as pillars of national development, social cohesion and productivity. He emphasized the University’s mission to train professionals who understand the link between physical activity, wellness and national transformation.
The event also featured the unveiling of Mr. Ernest Danso, Chef De Mission for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Scotland, as an Ambassador for SSEM. Mr. Danso pledged to promote the vision of the school widely.
Academic presentations were delivered by Dr. Samuel Donkor on sports and social inclusion and Ms. Irene Quaye of Republic Bank PLC on funding and security in sports.
Solidarity messages were shared by Mr. Dela Gbeve of the Association of Ghana Industries.
Certificates were awarded to participants of SSEM’s 8-week Professional Practice Course.
The programme concluded with a panel discussion involving leading academics, sports administrators and regional sports authorities, who explored the theme’s implications for health, youth empowerment and economic growth.
The event drew faculty, staff, students, sports administrators and members of the wider sports fraternity, reinforcing UHAS’ role in advancing the intersection of health, sports and national development.