IIUI annual sports gala kicks off

Students hailing from 30 different countries attend colourful event

ISLAMABAD:

The International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) annual sports gala kicked off on Wednesday with a vibrant flag march at the cricket ground of the male campus. It was inaugurated by IIUI President Dr Hathal Homoud Alotaibi.

The event featured various competitions, including the first-aid race, sack race, three-leg race, and a 100-metre race, which saw participation from both Pakistani and international students representing over 30 countries.

This sports gala is being orchestrated by the sports section of the Directorate of Students' Affairs, with approximately 1,000 students from 11 faculties of the university participating. The event is set to conclude on October 25 and comprises competitions like tug of war, table tennis, badminton, volleyball, basketball, cricket, football, hockey, chess, and various athletic events.

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Dr Hathal Homoud Alotaibi, in his address at the opening ceremony, emphasised the importance of sports in maintaining a healthy society. He commended the efforts of the Directorate of Students Affairs, noting that alongside their remarkable achievements in international rankings, the sports gala showcased the true international essence of IIUI.

He stressed the significance of engaging youth in constructive activities to combat negative attitudes. He emphasised that academic excellence can be achieved by involving students in studies, sports, and co-curricular activities. He also expressed his commitment to providing top-notch sports facilities for IIUI students and encouraged the organisers to increase the frequency of sports activities.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, October 19^th, 2023.