Rising stars eye 2028 Olympic glory: Oduro, Armah for elite training in Europe
The Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC) has unveiled a strategic athlete development programme that will send two of the nation’s brightest female talents to Europe for advanced training, as part of a long-term plan to boost Ghana’s medal prospects at the 2028 Olympic Games.
Through Olympic Solidarity scholarships, judoka Elizabeth Serwaa Oduro will hone her skills in France, while taekwondo star Henritta Naa Ayele Armah will undergo specialised coaching in Germany.
The scholarships cover round-trip airfare, an annual return ticket for holidays and a $5,000 subsidy for competition-related travel.
The scholarship marks a significant step in Ghana’s strategy to nurture elite athletes early, providing them with international exposure and world-class training to sharpen their skills ahead of the 2028 Olympic Games.
GOC President Richard Akpokavie described the initiative as a deliberate investment in athlete development, stressing that selections were strictly merit-based, grounded in consistent high-level performances and coach recommendations.
“Our number one priority is the athletes. We will do everything to support them and get them to the top. The only thing we ask in return is that they work hard when we invest in them,” Akpokavie said.
He also commended national federations for their behind-the-scenes efforts in producing athletes who continue to represent Ghana proudly on the international stage.
Both athletes will be closely monitored through their performances at key international tournaments during their European training stints, which will run until the 2028 Olympics.
The President of the Ghana Judo Association,Kenneth Arthur, welcomed the move and described Oduro’s inclusion in the inaugural group as a strong vote of confidence in the sport.
He praised both athletes as highly disciplined competitors, determined to qualify for the Olympics and win medals for Ghana.
The announcement was made at a brief ceremony attended by several national federation presidents, including Madam Rafatu Inusah (Ghana Rugby), Evans Yeboah (Ghana Badminton), Charles Osei Asibey (Ghana Armwrestling), Frederick Lartey Otu (Ghana Taekwondo) and George Owusu Ansah (Ghana Sports for All).
