At the 2024 FASU Athletics Award Ceremony, one athlete captured the spotlight: Joseph Prosper of Mauritius.

His name echoed through the venue as he stepped forward to claim the gold medal in the men’s high jump, but that wasn’t his only achievement, he was awarded a silver medal in the men’s long jump a day before.

When asked about his double win, Joseph expressed his joy and gratitude.

 “I am happy to have won in long jump because it was a personal best for me. In high jump as well—though not a personal best—I did my best, and I am very happy with the result,” he shared with a wide grin.

Regarding the variety of events he competes in, Joseph explained,

“I mostly do high jump. Long jump? I just dabble in it sometimes.” He went on to say, “I was also supposed to compete in hurdles, but it conflicted with the high jump, so I had to withdraw.” He said.

The noise of Joseph being set to compete in three distinct track and field events over just two days raised questions about how he manages to balance training for multiple sports with his studies. (Joseph is a fourth-year electrical engineering student at the University of Mauritius.)

Speaking on the challenge, he explained, “I try to have a timetable and allocate the same amount of practice time to my events. But sometimes, it is difficult, and I end up having more time for one and less time for another. But you need to find time to make it up.”

When asked about his future plans, Joseph admitted that he was still weighing his options between his passion for athletics and his academic career. “Let me finish my degree first and then think about it,” he said

The 2024 FASU Games brought together the finest university athletes across Africa, making Prosper’s achievements even more impressive. Whether he eventually sticks with the high jump bar or electrical circuits, Joseph Prosper hopes that his determination and resilience will set him up for a successful life.

Written by Iyanuoluwa Fesobi, Media Volunteer