Accra, Oct. 7, GNA - The University of Ghana, Legon would from the next academic year introduce a degree course in sports to enable the graduates to help uplift sports in the country.

Professor Kwadwo Asenso-Okyere, Vice Chancellor of the University announced this at the launch of this year's University of Ghana Cowbell Inter-Hall's Cross Country race at Legon on Thursday.

Promasidor Ghana Limited, producers of Cowbell Sweet Milk are the sponsors of the one-day event that has the Legon, Akuafo, Commonwealth, Sarbah and Volta Halls taking part in the race scheduled for Saturday, October 16.

Professor Asenso-Okyere underscored the relevance of sports in the development of a healthy human mind that can always stand the test of time to perform efficiently.

He urged students to take active interest in sports so as to stay healthy to fully contribute their quota to the country's development. A modern sports complex under construction at the University would be completed by the end of the year 2006, according to the Vice Chancellor.

Mr Festus Tettey, Communications Director of Promasidor Ghana Limited said the company started a partnership with the University about three years ago to motivate the students to win medals for themselves and the nation.

He said the increase in the sponsorship package from 3,000 dollars last year to 4000 dollars this year is aimed at motivating the athletes to give of their best.

Students who excel at the competition would be awarded scholarship.