By IndyPress News Desk
The University of Ibadan has inaugurated a committee for the establishment of the University of Ibadan Sports Academy (UISA).
Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Kayode Adebowale, stated that the institution intends to leverage sports as a viable economic venture.
“Developed countries have well-structured programmes dedicated to identifying and nurturing young talents in sports such that world-class athletes are discovered early and provided with the necessary training, facilities, and support systems required to excel at the highest levels,” he said.
He also stressed the economic viability of sports, noting that the committee was constituted to recommend modalities for the establishment of the UI Sports Academy.
According to the VC, the initiative will enable the University to discover new talents and harness opportunities within the sports industry.
He further disclosed that the Headmistress of the University of Ibadan Staff School and the Principal of International School, Ibadan, are members of the committee.
“The UI Staff School and International School, Ibadan, are important components in the sports development of the University, hence the inclusion of the headmistress and principal of the respective schools on the committee,” he added.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the committee, Olufemi A. Adegbesan of the Department of Human Kinetics, described the initiative as “phenomenal,” noting that it would shape the sports ecosystem of the University.
He reiterated that the proposed academy would be self-sustaining due to its economic potential, adding that the University already possesses the required facilities, with room for further upgrades.
Professor Adegbesan further noted that with a sustainable system such as the Sports Academy, the University could position itself as a global exporter of sporting talent.
He assured that the committee would work diligently towards the realisation of the Sports Academy and expressed optimism about future partnerships and collaborations aimed at achieving high standards in sports development.
Members of the committee include Professor O. A. Adegbesan (Department of Human Kinetics) as Convener; Professor O. A. Okunlola (Department of Geology); Professor A. O. Ige (Department of Physiology); Dr O. Adisa (Department of Human Kinetics); Dr A. M. Babalola (University Health Service); Y. Akintunde (Principal, International School, Ibadan); Hawau F. Adekanye (Headmistress, UI Staff School); and Oluchi Ajibola (University of Ibadan Sports Council) as Secretary.
Source: UI Directorate of Public Communication
