By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor Administration of the University of Ibadan, Professor Peter Olapegba, has charged delegates to the UI and University of Ghana Bilateral Games to allow the spirit of the bilateral games extend beyond the sports field.
He spoke on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale, while receiving the leaders of the delegation from the University of Ghana, participants of the bilateral games and officials of the University Sports Council during a courtesy visit.
He noted that the University of Ibadan and the University of Ghana share a similar history and year of foundation.
He said the delegates have, therefore, not come to visit the University of Ibadan but have come home.
Professor Olapegba stated that sports is wonderful because of its unifying factor.
He then welcomed the participants and encouraged them to explore the University’s tourist centres such as the Zoological and botanical gardens and other areas outside the campus.
The Chairman of the UI Sports Council, Professor Ajayi said hosting the bilateral games is a great thing, adding that 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.
According to him, bilateral games promote the exchange of cultural values and provide a leeway for introducing a new context of sporting in the two universities.
Professor Ajayi explained that other universities that are not involved in the bilateral games are getting agitated to know the dynamics and collaboration between the two universities.
The leader of the delegates 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.
He stated that bilateral games are not seen as a competition but fraternity.
He said 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 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 bilateral 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.
