The Federation of African University Sports (FASU) recently celebrated the International Day of University Sport with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability.
The event was particularly significant as it coincided with World Clean-Up Day, highlighting FASU’s dedication to merging sports with environmental advocacy.
At the heart of the celebration was the Leadership and Environmental Sustainability Program, for a Green FASU, an initiative that promotes sustainability and environmental responsibility in university sports.
It involves reducing the ecological impact of FASU events and activities, such as minimizing waste, promoting energy efficiency, and using eco-friendly materials.
The event brought together students, athletes, and community leaders, showing how universities can play a key role in addressing environmental challenges.
Peninnah Kabenge the Secretary-General for FASU on the event said, “Both must move in tangent. For us to work on our sports, we need a clean environment, and this was an opportunity to merge both sports and the need for environmental sustainability. A clean space is essential for successful events”.
As part of the World Clean-Up Day celebrations, students and community members participated in clean-up campaigns, addressing issues of waste management and environmental degradation.
Dr. Adelopo, Head of the UNILAG Green Hub, stated, “Our initiative aims not only to improve the environment but also to foster better habits among our students and significantly reduce waste in our surroundings.”
FASU’s goal was not only to celebrate sports but to use this platform to encourage students to take an active role in protecting the environment. By promoting leadership and sustainability together, the event showed that sports can be a powerful tool for social change.
FASU encourages universities across Africa to continue building on the success of this event, fostering a culture of sustainability and leadership among students as they prepare to take on the challenges of the future.