ISLAMABAD: As many as 3,000 athletes will participate in the Prime Minister University Olympiad 2024 scheduled to commence from November 21 in the federal capital, said Chairman PM Youth Programme Rana Mashood Ahmad here on Sunday.

A meeting was held to discuss and finalise arrangements for the event which was attended by the vice chancellors of universities from across the country. This national sporting event will feature university students competing in a variety of athletic disciplines, the meeting was informed.

The olympiad is poised to be one of the largest student athletic events in Pakistan, aiming to promote physical fitness, sportsmanship, and a sense of unity among the youth, Mr Mashood said.

The PM Youth Programme head emphasized the importance of this event in showcasing the talent and dedication of young athletes. He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the youth of Pakistan in all fields, including sports, to help them reach their full potential. “The Prime Minister’s University Olympiad is a significant initiative that brings together the brightest young athletes from across the country,” said Rana Mashood.

“With 3,000 participants, this event will not only foster a spirit of healthy competition but will also serve as a platform for the youth to engage, excel, and represent their universities with pride.”

The meeting was also attended by Chairman of the Higher Education Commission (HEC), Mukhtar Ahmed Khan, who praised the collaborative efforts between universities and government bodies.

He highlighted the crucial role of higher education institutions in organising such large-scale events, which contribute to the holistic development of students.

“This Olympiad is a celebration of athleticism, teamwork, and national pride. It is essential that we come together to ensure the smooth execution of this event, as it will leave a lasting impact on the students and the university sports culture in Pakistan,” said Mukhtar Ahmed Khan.

With just a few days are left to the event, the organising committees are working round the clock to finalise the logistics and ensure that the event runs smoothly. The athletes will compete in a range of sports, aiming to demonstrate their skills and represent their respective universities at the highest level of competition.

Published in Dawn, November 17th, 2024