The Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) has successfully organised an Olympic Values Education Programme (OVEP) at the University of Ghana, Legon, engaging about 500 schoolchildren in a day of learning centred on the values of excellence, friendship and respect.
The event, held on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, formed part of the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) global initiative aimed at using sport as a tool to educate young people on the fundamental values of Olympism.
The programme also formed part of the GOC’s broader efforts to expand Olympic values education in schools and communities across the country as Ghana prepares for participation in the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, the first Youth Olympics to be staged on African soil.
Held on the theme “Africa’s First, Ghana’s Moment!”, the initiative sought to connect young Ghanaians to the historic Games while promoting character development through sport.
Addressing the students, Madam Fati Lily Soale, Chief Director of the Ministry of Sports and Recreation, encouraged them to embrace the values taught through sport and use them as a foundation for success in life.
“You are the future of Ghanaian sports, and among you may be future world champions, coaches, sports administrators and leaders who will raise the flag of Ghana high across the world.
“Today, through OVEP, we are reminding you that sport is much more than winning medals. It teaches excellence, friendship and respect. It also teaches teamwork, perseverance, courage, discipline and the importance of fair play.
“My dear young ones, whether you become professional athletes or not, these values will help you succeed in every area of life,” she said.
Madam Soale also highlighted the significance of the upcoming Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, noting that it would be the first time the event would be hosted in Africa.
“This is an achievement not only for Senegal but for the entire African continent. It tells the world that Africa is ready to take its place at the centre of the global sporting landscape and showcase its talent, culture, hospitality and enormous sporting potential,” she stated.
Madam Soale added that the Games presented a unique opportunity for Ghana to inspire a new generation of athletes who could go on to represent the nation and win medals on the international stage.
Madam Judith Ennin, Municipal Director of Education for Ayawaso West, commended the GOC for bringing the programme to the municipality and allowing students to benefit from Olympic education.
She urged the participating students to showcase their talents and take advantage of opportunities that could help nurture their sporting potential.
“Many great athletes started from programmes such as this, and I encourage you to remain dedicated, disciplined and committed to your dreams because your talent can open doors to a brighter future,” she added.
Mohammed Muniru, Secretary-General of the GOC, urged the students to uphold the Olympic values of excellence, friendship and respect, stressing that these principles could guide them to success in both sports and life.
He also assured participants that Ghana would be strongly represented at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games scheduled from October 31- November 13, expressing confidence that Team Ghana would compete creditably and strive to improve on the nation’s medal haul.
