Esports, also known as competitive video gaming, has taken the world by storm, captivating millions of fans who tune in to watch professional players compete at the highest level. But it’s not just about entertainment anymore. Universities around the globe are recognising the immense potential of esports as a way to enhance the overall university experience for students, and Ghana is no exception.
Enter the Esports Association, Ghana (EAG), a trailblazer in African esports. The EAG is on a mission to empower educational institutions in Ghana by incorporating esports and game development into their offerings, providing students with alternative and career-changing experiences. One such collaboration took place during the Techvolution Celebration week at Valley View University, where EAG provided an electrifying esports experience for the students.
But that’s not all. The EAG is also supporting tertiary institutions including the University of Ghana (UG), the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), and Ashesi University, among many others, in various ways to truly elevate the esports scene in Ghana. Universities can establish their own esports teams, allowing students to compete against other universities and showcase their skills. Scholarships for esports excellence are also on the horizon, following in the footsteps of universities in Europe, America, and Asia. This can provide financial support to talented students who may not have had access to higher education otherwise, attracting top esports talent to Ghana and Africa as a whole.
Investing in state-of-the-art esports facilities, such as gaming labs or arenas, is another area where universities can make a difference. These facilities provide students with dedicated spaces to practise and compete, equipped with cutting-edge equipment. Esports can also be incorporated into coursework by offering classes on esports management or using it as a case study in business or marketing courses, further bridging the gap between academia and the gaming industry.
But it’s not all about competition and academics. Universities can also host exciting esports events, such as tournaments or gaming conventions, to bring together the gaming community and provide students with invaluable networking opportunities with industry professionals. Esports is not just a hobby but a thriving industry with vast career prospects, and universities are taking notice.
By integrating esports into the university experience, students are provided with new and thrilling opportunities to pursue their passions and interests. It also fosters a sense of community among students who share a love for gaming, providing a platform for them to showcase their skills and talents. Recently, Esports Africa Tournament (EAT), in collaboration with partners such as Esports Academy, Prime Autosports, TechHub, PlayProvince, Esports Africa News (EAN), Canvic Gaming, PlayArena, and VGA Esports Show, supported an electrifying esports event held on the campus of Valley View University in Oyibi, Accra.
Esports is not just a passing trend but a phenomenon that is here to stay. Universities in Ghana and across Africa are embracing this dynamic field and harnessing its potential to enhance the educational journey of their students. With EAG leading the charge, the esports scene in Ghana is set for a thrilling and promising future.