Vice President of the Republic of Ghana, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has underscored the broader value of sports, describing it as not only a competitive activity but also a vital tool for promoting health, strengthening human relations, and fostering unity in society.
According to her, sports teach important life lessons such as generosity, teamwork, and the ability to recognise and appreciate the strengths of others. She explained that playing to another person’s strength does not make one weak, but rather shows that people possess different kinds of strengths which, when combined, lead to success.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang made these remarks during a working visit to the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, where she stressed that national challenges can only be effectively addressed when people come together and work collaboratively. She noted that in some cases, issues are better resolved through private engagement and dialogue, rather than public confrontation.
The Vice President assured stakeholders in the sports sector that government remains committed to working with everyone to advance sports development in the country. While reaffirming her respect for established structures, she emphasized that structures should not limit individuals from expressing their views or contributing ideas toward progress.
Touching on the issue of sports funding, Professor Opoku-Agyemang urged the Ministry to explore innovative and sustainable ways of raising funds beyond the traditional reliance on appeals. She encouraged the development of sports facilities that can generate revenue and stressed the importance of maintaining such facilities to ensure long-term benefits.
Additionally, she charged the Ministry to prioritise adequate security and proper screening at sporting events and facilities, to protect athletes, officials, and spectators, and to ensure that individuals do not suffer unnecessarily because of the discipline or profession they have chosen.
She concluded by reiterating that a well-organised, inclusive, and well-funded sports sector is essential for national development, social cohesion, and the overall well-being of Ghanaians.
Story by: George Osei-Akoto Addae (Teacher Kojo) #ahotoronline.com/oseiakotor1@gmail.com