The Federal University of Technology, Akure, FUTA, hosted the second Olympics Value Education Programme (OVEP) organised by the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) under the auspices of Olympic Solidarity.
The event held at the Hilltop auditorium of the University from September 26 to 29, 2021.
Project Officer, Nigerian Olympic Committee, Mrs. Kemi Ogundaisi, said the essence of the programme was to give back to the society using sports as a tool in transforming the behaviour of youth and character orientation.
She said the idea is to work on their discipline, self-respect and to others, target and excellence in general human relation.
Ogundaisi thanked the management of FUTA for the warm reception accorded them and acknowledged that FUTA is indeed serene and a worthy host.
Speaking at the opening, Vice chancellor of FUTA, Prof. Joseph Fuwape, represented by Dean of School of Life Sciences, Prof. Oluyemisi Ashamo, said the programme is a welcome idea as it would afford participants the opportunity to interact with one another.
He added that the OVEP initiative tallies with some of the core functions of the education system, which is preparing the youth for the future and ensuring that they are worthy in character and learning before leaving the university environment.
Fuwape promised that FUTA would continue to partner with relevant agencies and organisations to promote youth development and a better society.
Director of Sports, Dr. Michael Ajibua, said FUTA was delighted to host the programme, adding that the school has become a key supporter of the country’s sports development through the regular hosting of various competitions, including Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) Olympics trial events and key qualifying competitions for national and continental competitions.
He said the university’s participation in Nigeria University Games (NUGA) has been impressive and worthy of emulation.
The vice chancellor advised the participants to ensure that the essence and principle of OVEP instilled in them are given practical expression when they get back to their various destinations.
Students from Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti; Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko; Edo State University, Ekpoma; Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State and the host university, attended the Olympics training event.
