Government commits more funding to AUUS, calls for Accountability and Integrity

Gilbert Orikiriza, an Education Officer at the Ministry of Education and Sports, has encouraged universities to promote academic excellence for student-athletes alongside the push for sports excellence. Orikiriza, who represented the Commissioner of Physical Education and Sports, Rev. Canon Dr. Duncans Mugumya, was speaking to the Association of Uganda University Sport (AUUS) delegates comprising Deans of Students, Sports Tutors, and student leaders during the closure of the two-day 7th AUUS Forum held at the Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST)-Kihumuro Campus in Mbarara on Friday.

Furthermore, universities were asked to implement systems for tracking student-athletes' records from their initial participation through to international representation. Orikiriza highlighted that the focus should be on athletes' welfare and the organisers' integrity. He emphasised the significance of integrity and explained that welfare encompasses various aspects, such as safeguarding and ensuring no student is overlooked in sports. When recruiting coaches, he advised prioritising competence-based coaching, as this approach is expected to yield better outcomes.

He tasked universities with organising high-quality competitions under clear, unambiguous rules. Orikiriza clarified that the ministry must approve all rules and regulations, adding that this is not a matter of misinterpretation. "The more you become official, the more you become responsible. The ministry will soon form an apex body that will govern all sports associations in educational institutions," he said.

"We also need to encourage students to excel academically alongside sports. And as we recruit coaches, let us emphasise competence-based coaching, as it will yield better results alongside high-quality competition by setting ground rules that do not confuse everyone. So, your rules and regulations must be approved by the ministry. This is not a misunderstanding." He encouraged the associations to enhance their branding to increase the visibility of AUUS and its activities, and suggested collaboration with the ministry.

He noted that the current branding is lacking, making the organisation "invisible." Orikiriza committed to increasing the government's financial support for AUUS in the current fiscal year, but emphasised that the funds should be received and managed with accountability and proper application. He explained that under the 2023 Sports Act, sports associations across various disciplines are now considered part of physical education and sports (PES). He urged them to show respect for stakeholders, submit thorough reports on their activities, and keep the ministry updated. Orikiriza stated that increased official status brings greater responsibility.

He also mentioned that the ministry plans to establish a governing body for sports associations within educational institutions. He stressed that all universities must adhere to the AUUS constitution and follow established procedures, including those for elections and finances, ensuring full compliance. "All universities must follow the AUUS constitution, and all the other procedures: the election procedures, the finances, and ensure compliance. I know you have a constitution that is governing your association.

But is it signed by the ministry? Was it done in consultation with the policy department? Is it in line with the Sports Act? You'd better do reviews.

So, once we start giving you money, you must have a letter of delegated responsibility. You must have your rules and guidelines signed. You must own your constitution," he stated. AUUS president George Wagoogo noted that the networks built, partnerships created, and ideas generated during the forum will undoubtedly strengthen collaboration among institutions and contribute to the growth of university sports across the country.

He also appreciated the various speakers, facilitators, moderators, and paper presenters for their insightful presentations and research contributions. "Your knowledge, expertise, and recommendations have enriched us and challenged us to think critically about the future of sports in the institutions of Uganda. To all delegates from the more than 20 universities represented here, thank you for your active participation, discipline, and willingness to engage constructively." "Over the past two days, we have had meaningful discussions, exchanged valuable ideas, shared experiences, and explored innovative approaches to advancing inclusive sports. It's through this inauguration that we have demonstrated that inclusive sports remains a powerful platform for talent, employment, leadership growth, national unity, education, and social transformation," Wagoogo stated.