The International University Sports Federation (FISU) encourages student-athletes worldwide to combine sports performance with academic pursuits, FISU Acting President Leonz Eder said in an interview ahead of the summer Universiade.

The 31st FISU Summer World University Games opened on Friday evening and will last until August 8 in Chengdu, capital of southwest China's Sichuan Province.

With the motto of "Excellence in Mind and Body," FISU highlights the dual career of student-athletes, which refers to the combination of sports and academic careers, said Eder during Tuesday's interview with China Media Group.