SWABI, Feb 20: Speakers at the annual sports function and prize distribution ceremony of high schools here on Wednesday lauded the revival of the games competitions in the public sector schools.

Shamas Khan, additional director education of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, was chief guest on the occasion. District Education Officer, Mardan, Bahadar Khan Marwat, Abdul Salam, EDO Swabi, principals, headmasters, physical education teachers, students and winning teams of the district tournament participated in the function.

Mr Shamas Khan said the credit of the revival of the games went to the present government, adding officers in education directorate, heads of educational institutions, teachers and students were also to take credit for helping revival of the games in the schools.

“We appreciate their valuable contributions and constructive role to revive the sports preparing students to compete at national and international levels,” he said. However, he said, there is still a long way to go because the government strives to bring these games at par with the international standard.

There was no dearth of talent and the past track-record showed that several youngsters from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had shined not only at the national level but at international stage, bringing good name to themselves and to their beloved country, recalled the education department official.

“We are proud of our heroes because they set examples for other youngsters to follow. And they will be provided complete support in their endeavours,” promised Mr Shamas Khan.

EDO Abdul Salam said the games were successfully and peacefully conducted by the district tournament committee, especially the PETs.

Earlier, the students displayed their skills, especially the PT show, earning applause from the participants.

District tournament committee general secretary Syed Bahadar Shah demanded provision of more sports facilities and resolution of various problems.