Bawah Fuseini, President of Ghana Athletics, highlights the critical necessity of comprehensive testing for event facilities and equipment ahead of the upcoming African Games. The National Invitational Students Athletics Championship (NISAC), scheduled for February 24-28, 2024, at the University of Ghana, serves as a crucial preparatory event for the prestigious competition.

Bawah underscores the significance of the NISAC event, emphasizing its role in testing the facilities, including the government-acquired grand prix elite electronic timing system, designed for the African Games’ track events. Despite concerns about a possible postponement, Bawah stresses the paramount importance of the NISAC’s success in determining overall readiness for the African Games.

With the African Games commencing on March 8, 2024, the NISAC’s conclusion on February 28 provides a brief window for the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) and contractors to address any identified issues during the field and track test-run at the Legon sports stadium.

Bawah notes that postponing the NISAC event to a later date would adversely affect the Games’ preparation, as it would limit the time available for testing facilities and the electronic timer. Ghana Athletics has trained approximately 100 technical and officiating officials for the Games, ensuring their readiness through practical sessions at the Open Championships in Cape Coast.

The school championships not only serve as a competitive platform but also play a crucial role in evaluating the competency of officials for the upcoming international competition. Bawah emphasizes the need to test the new equipment and facilities to ensure a smooth and successful African Games.