Head of the Department of Physical Education & Sports Development (PESS), of University of Ghana (UG), Dr. Austin Laguterah on Thursday, September 23, 2021 paid a formal visit to the Director General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Prof. Peter Twumasi.
The meeting was to have a discussion between PESS and the NSA boss on how to close the gap between academia and sports where Dr.Austin Laguterah, in his opening remarks opined, there was the need to get in touch with the appropriate industry players and stakeholders on this agenda.
Dr.Austin Laguterah, who was in the company of faculty member, Dr. Emmanuel Asase, the Departmental Secretary, Madam Naa and Madam Vivian stated that, this initiative is meant to implement policies, formulate ways to train coaches, referees and human resources development that will aid research in sports development.
He disclosed that, one of the visions of the department is to develop sports, hence initiatives like this should be given the necessary focus for mutual benefits.
Dr. Laguterah was hopeful that, the NSA will be able to open its facility for students in order to have a practical experience with the facility as these students make efforts to sharpen their sporting talents.
The Director General of NSA, Prof. Peter Twumasi on his part expressed his appreciation for such an initiative adding, it is a step in the right direction.
He noted that, this will provide that platform for not just athletes to develop their potentials fully but will equally provide that voice for policy makers to come on board to assist and fund their cause. He further stated, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has keen interest in supporting the sports development agenda and it is evident through the provision of multi multipurpose sports infrastructure across the country which will aid sporting activities and for research.
According to Prof.Twumasi, irrespective of the challenges faced by technical officials, referees, coaches and other key participants, this agenda will make it possible to reform and bridge that gap. He assured them of the Authority’s willingness to support by making its facilities available to accommodate them in research and in active sports programs. He however believes, some policies need to be reformed and ideas formulated as well on this subject. The Deputy Director General-Technical, Mr. Kwame Amponfi Jnr equally suggested that, new ideas should be welcomed from the youth as a way of encouraging them to participate in sports related activities.
By: Marvelina Ayi-Bonte
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