By Patrick Opio
Senior Communications Officer
Uganda Woodball Federation (UWBF) Team has successfully trained Lira University staff and students, and participants from Lira District on the Woodball playing skills.
While launching the game, Lira University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jasper Ogwal Okeng said the institution has fully joined the rest of the world in the Woodball game playing. The training and launch was conducted on 14th November 2025.
The Uganda Woodball Federation organized the training workshop, which attracted participants from Lira District and Lira University staff and students, aimed at developing their skills and promoting the game in the region. The training attracted 118 students, 9 staff members and 10 participants from Lira district woodball association.
Prof. Ogwal Okeng noted that the sport will provide the university students with benefits such as enriched attentiveness, boosted strategic thinking, and the development of soft skills like teamwork and precarious thinking.
He said, “I am extremely happy…this game is a way to stay physically active, reduce stress, and build social connections through university sports programs.”
Prof. Ogwal-Okeng, closed the one-day Workshop in style, showcasing the university’s obligation to promoting sports and healthy activities.
Mr. Busuulwa Frederick, Technical Director UWBF, also lead trainer, said Woodball programs allow universities to field teams and represent the institution in local and national competitions.
Mr. Busuulwa said, Woodball is a mind game that requires players to learn tactics and be focused, which improves calculated thinking skills.
Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jasper Ogwal Okeng playing woodball as DVC, Assoc. Prof. Okaka Opio Dokotum and DoS, Emma Aceng (both in the middle) look on.
Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Assoc. Prof. Okaka Opio Dokotum said, “Woodball is really a fascinating game that all of us can play with ease.”
On increasing social interaction, Prof. Okaka Opio said, playing woodball leads to new friendships and a stronger sense of community on campus, promoting student participation in co-curricular activities and contributing to a well-rounded student experience.
Ms Emma Aceng, Dean of Students, said, engaging in sports like woodball is a great way for staff and students to stay physically active and manage stress.
“It is about talent and opportunity, the sport can help students discover hidden talents and may even lead to opportunities for talented players,” Ms Emma Aceng noted.
On improving concentration, Ms Aceng observes, participating in games helps students learn to concentrate better, which can translate to improved focus in class.
She said Lira University is committed to promoting sports and providing opportunities for students to develop their skills and to develop a healthy lifestyle at the institution.
Other trainers in the team were Isabirye George, Were Johnson and Kato Adam.
