Uganda beats UK and Sweden to win FISU Green Award in Bochum

The 2025 FISU World Conference, held at Jahrhunderthalle Bochum in Germany from July 17–19, brought together over 400 participants to explore the future of university sports under the themes of sustainability, athlete wellbeing, and performance environments.

Among the standout moments was Uganda’s historic win of the FISU Green Award, beating strong entries from the United Kingdom and Sweden, who placed second and third respectively. 

The award recognized Uganda’s exceptional steps to promote environmental sustainability ahead of the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU Games.

“Winning this award is such a proud moment for Uganda,” said Peninah Kabenge, President of the Association of Uganda University Sports (AUUS). 

“It shows the world that we are taking real action on sustainability. I believe this recognition will inspire our athletes to give their best performances at the Games,” The FISU Vice President added.

The award honours delegations that demonstrate commitment to climate action, environmental responsibility, and practical sustainability within university sports systems.

Emmanuel Aupal, FISU Student Ambassador and FASU student representative, played a leading role in documenting Uganda’s initiatives.

“The initiative stemmed from the theme of the Games, sustainability and eco-friendly environments and we felt AUUS needed to contribute meaningfully in the build-up to Rhine-Ruhr,” said Aupal.

“Most initiatives like this stay on paper or in conference halls. We wanted to make it practical something universities and sports tutors can adopt regularly. It benefits everyone and is vital for Uganda’s long-term sustainability.” Aupal told Vision Sports.

He added, “This conference has been about action, implementing what has been discussed. That is  exactly what we  needs to be done continously by everyone because it will benefit all,”.

Highlights of Uganda’s Green Initiative

• Commemorative Tree Planting at Gulu University
At the AUUS National Forum (June 12–14, 2025), Uganda officially launched the “Road to Rhine-Ruhr 2025” with symbolic tree planting, creating a living legacy and fostering eco-awareness across campuses.

• Virtual Meetings to Cut Carbon Emissions
To limit travel, AUUS held five out of six delegation planning meetings online via Zoom reducing their carbon footprint while increasing efficiency.

• Eco-Conscious Athlete Training Habits
Athletes were urged to use reusable water bottles, clean their training areas, and use digital bikes for short-distance travel, promoting both sustainability and fitness.

• Sustainability Sensitization for Athletes and Staff
A series of sessions, informed by the FISU Healthy Campus programme, educated team members on environmental responsibility during training, travel, and competition.

Uganda’s recognition positions it as a continental leader in university sport sustainability, outpacing countries with greater resources. 

With momentum from the Green Award, AUUS now aims to embed these eco-conscious practices across universities nationwide   proving that small, consistent actions can lead to global recognition.