The three-day Girls Sports Carnival came to an electrifying conclusion at the Liaquat Gymnasium of the Pakistan Sports Complex on Sunday. This spectacular event, organized by the Federal Ministry of Education in partnership with the Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (FBISE) and the Federal Directorate of Education (FDE), attracted around 4,000 female athletes from across Pakistan, including regions such as Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit Baltistan (GB).
The closing ceremony was marked by vibrant performances and the high energy of participants and spectators alike, creating an atmosphere of celebration and empowerment. The event underscored the power of sports in uniting young girls, offering them an opportunity to showcase their talents and build their confidence on a national platform.
A Gathering of Leaders and Supporters
Federal Secretary for Education, Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, graced the event as the special guest. In his speech, Wani expressed his pride and excitement at the sight of such a large and enthusiastic crowd, showing their support for the girls and the festival. He extended his heartfelt gratitude to the athletes, organizers, and participants, acknowledging the significant role this event played in inspiring young girls across the country.
Chairman of the Federal Board, Syed Junaid Akhlaq, also highlighted the importance of integrating education and sports. He said, “The board is not only at the forefront in the field of education but also playing an active role in the field of sports.” His words emphasized the growing importance of sports as a vital component of a well-rounded educational experience.
Adding an international flair to the event, Austria’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Andrea Wieck, attended the carnival, visiting various stalls and appreciating the efforts of both the athletes and the organizers. The presence of dignitaries such as Parliamentary Secretary Farah Naz Akbar and Brigadier Dr. Muhammad Naveed from the Army Public School System Rawalpindi further highlighted the significance of the event.
Showcasing the Power of Young Female Athletes
The Girls Sports Carnival was much more than just a competition. It was an initiative aimed at empowering young girls by giving them a stage to showcase their athletic talents in a wide variety of sports, including athletics, basketball, football, volleyball, table tennis, badminton, and tennis. Performances on cultural and sports-related national songs also added to the festive and inclusive atmosphere of the carnival.
Young athletes from across Pakistan brought their A-game to the event, competing fiercely and demonstrating their skills in each sport. Among the participants was 14-year-old Sana Javed from AJK, who described the carnival as a thrilling experience. “Participating in this prestigious event was a thrill. After months of dedication and hard work, I’m proud to be a part of this carnival. Initiatives like this empower girls like me to push beyond our limits and chase our passions,” she said with pride.
Aneela, a 15-year-old athlete, echoed Sana’s sentiments, stating, “Participating in the Carnival has been an unforgettable experience. It’s crucial we have more platforms like this to showcase that girls can excel in any sport, matching their counterparts in skill and determination.”
For Yasim, a 16-year-old from Gilgit Baltistan, the carnival was a source of inspiration. “The journey to this carnival has been challenging, but seeing so many talented athletes come together has been truly inspiring. This event demonstrates that, with the right support, girls can achieve greatness in sports.”
Parents Share the Joy of Their Daughters’ Success
The carnival was not just an important event for the athletes but also a source of immense pride for their families. Parents were overjoyed to see their daughters excel in a field often dominated by boys. Zoya Aslam, a proud mother, beamed with joy as she watched her daughter compete. “Seeing my daughter compete and excel is an absolute delight. Events like these are vital, as they foster confidence and promote healthy lifestyles among girls, setting them up for lifelong success,” she remarked.
Celebrating the Athletes: Awards and Recognition
The final day of the carnival included an awards ceremony that celebrated the achievements of these young female athletes. This recognition aimed to encourage more girls to take part in sports and develop their skills. The ceremony was a testament to the hard work and dedication of all the participants, offering a glimpse into the future of women’s sports in Pakistan.
As the Girls Sports Carnival concluded, the message was clear: girls across Pakistan have the potential to excel in sports and should be given the support and opportunities to do so. Through events like this, barriers are being broken, and a new generation of empowered, confident female athletes is rising.
