KARACHI: Concerns over the lack of a coherent sports policy, weak grassroots development and ineffective use of resources were highlighted by experts as key challenges to Pakistan’s sporting progress at a two-day sports sciences conference held at the University of Karachi.

On the second day, the in-charge Regional Director of the Federal HEC Sulaiman Ahmad emphasised that expecting universities to produce medal winners is unrealistic.

He explained that the real foundation of talented athletes is built during school and college years. He stressed the need for effective mentorship and guidance of emerging athletes at the early stages so they can achieve success at national, Asian, and global levels.

KU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi and others also spoke about obstacles to sports development in the country and ways to improve.

Published in Dawn, May 5th, 2026