The athletic oval of the University of Ghana, Legon campus came alive with colour, competition, and cheer as staff of the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) gathered for the much-anticipated 2025 edition of the Nogulympics Games. It was a day when lab coats were swapped for jerseys, and scientific focus gave way to vibrant sporting activity, celebrating health, unity, and team spirit at its finest.
The Director presents trophies to the Immune Strikers and the Immunology department.
With events ranging from football, volleyball, and athletics to table tennis, tug of peace, and the thrilling Ladies’ penalty shootout, the games brought departments together in friendly rivalry, reinforcing camaraderie and wellness among staff of all categories.
The football officials getting ready to kick off the games.
Adding to the occasion was a special appearance by the Director of NMIMR, Professor Dorothy Yeboah-Manu, who officially declared the games open. In her remarks, she commended staff for embracing the spirit of the Nogulympics and emphasized the Institute’s commitment to promoting well-being and teamwork alongside scientific excellence.
“This event reminds us that we are not just colleagues, we are a community. These games offer us the chance to bond, to challenge ourselves, and to celebrate the people who keep Noguchi thriving,” she said, drawing enthusiastic applause from participants.
The Viral Spikes bursts into celebration after their win.
Football was fiercely contested, with the Viral Spikes emerging as champions after a dramatic final against Nutrilem. The journey to the final featured memorable performances from The Admins, Immune Strikers, and BacterioStars, who showcased skill, strategy, and stamina.
Cheers to teamwork and determination – Immune Strikers basks in their victory.
In volleyball, the Outbreak Defenders claimed the top spot, narrowly defeating the Immune Strikers in an action-packed final match that had the crowd on its feet.
The table tennis team displaying their skills to their opponent.
At the table tennis arena, speed and precision were the names of the game. The Immune Strikers snatched victory from the Viral Spikes in a fast-paced final, while ParaRangers, Amipath Heroes, and The Admins also earned praise for their competitive spirit.
Both male and female athletic teams ready to set off.
The athletics segment saw both male and female runners take to the tracks in a series of sprints and relays. Teams such as BacterioStars, Viral Spikes, ParaRangers, and The Admins clocked impressive times and were met with loud cheers from colleagues.
Ladies team goalkeeper ready to catch the penalty shootout from her counterparts.
The ever-popular Ladies’ penalty shootout brought flair and fire to the field, as the BacterioStars edged past the Outbreak Defenders in a closely contested match filled with fun and determination.
The Director and some management team members at the Nogulympics games.
The games wrapped up with the classic Tug of Peace, a test of strength, grit, and unity. After a spirited struggle, the ParaRangers pulled their way to victory over the Outbreak Defenders, drawing loud celebration from the crowd.
Team ParaRangers celebrates their well-deserved victory after their win in the Tug of Peace.
An awards ceremony followed, honouring winning teams and standout individual performances with medals and trophies. However, the real triumph was the shared energy, teamwork, and joy that defined the entire day.
Prof. Joseph Humphrey Kofi Bonney, Head, Department of Virology, congratulates a standout female athlete for her impressive performance.
The 2025 Nogulympic Games were not just about medals but about unity, wellness, and celebrating the people behind science. The games provided a level playing field for everyone to connect and compete, with no barriers between staff levels.
The Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Prof. Alfred Edwin Yawson, was also at the games.