Bilateral Games: University Of Ibadan Hosts University Of Ghana
In the bid to promote the exchange of cultural values and provide a leeway for introducing a new sporting context between universities, the University of Ibadan (UI) has hosted the University of Ghana to Bilateral Games.
While receiving the delegates to the Bilateral Games who came on a courtesy visit, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Peter Olapegba, charged them to allow the spirit of the games extend beyond the sports field.
Prof. Olapegba, on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, received the leaders of the delegation from the University of Ghana, participants at the Bilateral Games and officials of the University Sports Council.
He disclosed that the University of Ibadan and the University of Ghana share a similar history and year of foundation and that the delegates have, therefore, not come to visit the University of Ibadan but have come home, stressing that sports is wonderful because of its unifying factor.
Olapegba welcomed the participants and encouraged them to explore the University of Ibadan’s tourist centres such as the Zoological and Botanical gardens and other areas outside the campus.
Similarly, the Chairman of the UI Sports Council, Professor Ajayi, expressed excitement at hosting the Bilateral Games, saying the two universities have been interacting to showcase what sports stand for.
He explained that the Bilateral Games had been held for many years because sports, more than religion, is the opium of the masses. He asserted that other universities that are not involved in the Bilateral Games are getting agitated to know the dynamics and collaboration between the two universities.
In his remark, the leader of the delegate and Director of Sports, University of Ghana, Dr Bella Bitugu, said the development of the relationship between the two universities from sports to research areas is amazing, revealing that the Bilateral Games is not seen as a competition but a fraternity.
He disclosed that the Bilateral Games could not hold in the last three years as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and other matters, expressing joy that this year is a reality and a success.
Dr. Bitugu explained that progress has been made in the Bilateral Games, with debate and seminars being part of the activities newly introduced, while the Local Organising Committee is thinking of introducing more innovations to the games.
He announced that the University of Ghana is prepared and ready to host UI at the second leg of the Bilateral Games, while also appreciating the University of Ibadan for the hospitality and team spirit.
Olubunmi Osoteku.
