A three-day ‘Girls Sports Carnival’ kicked off on Friday at the Pakistan Sports Complex, Islamabad with a vibrant and colourful opening ceremony.
The event is taking place under the auspices of Federal Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education and Federal Directorate of Education Islamabad.
Around 4,000 girl athletes from all over Pakistan including Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan are featuring in the event.
The event aims to empower young girls through sports, providing them with an opportunity to showcase their athletic talents across a range of sport disciplines, including athletics, basketball, football, volleyball, table tennis, badminton and tennis.
Minister for Education and Professional Training Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, who was the chief guest at the opening ceremony inaugurated the event.
He commended the efforts of young female athletes, acknowledging the critical role sports play in their development. “These [girl] athletes are breaking barriers, not just in sports but in all walks of life.
“They are a reflection of Pakistan’s progress, demonstrating that with the right support and encouragement, there’s no limit to what they can achieve,” Siddiqui said speaking at the ceremony.
Highlighting the transformative power of sports for girls he said: “When our girls excel in sports, it’s not just about winning a game — it’s about building confidence, discipline and leadership skills.
“These are qualities that will serve them in all aspects of life, from their education to their careers.”
He said, his ministry was committed to promoting a culture of fitness and health among girls through these sports activities.
“Such carnivals ensure continued opportunities for young girls. We need to keep creating spaces where our daughters can thrive. They are our future and it is our duty to support their ambitions, whether in the classroom, the boardroom or on the field.”
The minister also spoke about how sports could bridge the gender gap and serve as a tool for inclusion. “Sports teach us teamwork, respect, and resilience. By encouraging more girls to participate, we are moving towards a more inclusive society, where everyone has a chance to contribute and succeed.”
The three-day extravaganza promises intense competitions and camaraderie. Speaking about their excitement and determination, several young athletes expressed their feelings about the carnival.
