Capital integrates sports into education system

Academic year opens with sports focus; schools, madrassahs join unified sports plan

ISLAMABAD:

The Inter-Provincial Coordination Division (IPC), under the chairmanship of its Secretary, has unveiled a major initiative to integrate sports into the education system in Islamabad, following a high-level consultation with education authorities and national sports federations.

It was agreed that the first week of April will mark the commencement of both the academic year and the Islamabad School Sports Year across all public and private schools, madrassahs and non-formal education institutions in the federal capital.

As part of the initiative, the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), in collaboration with various sports federations, will organise an Islamabad Sports Orientation Gala at its facilities. The event will primarily engage primary and middle school students, offering exposure to a wide range of sports through interactive sessions, live demonstrations and practical participation.

Students will be granted free access to PSB facilities, alongside structured coaching programmes led by certified trainers. The initiative also incorporates a talent identification mechanism aimed at recognising and nurturing young athletes at an early stage.

A broad spectrum of sports will be covered, including cricket, hockey, football, tennis, padel, athletics (track and field), cycling, rock climbing, rugby, chess, and martial arts such as judo and taekwondo—ensuring inclusive participation across both traditional and emerging disciplines.

A phased implementation plan has been outlined: the Orientation Gala in April, followed by regular coaching and school-level activities from May to August, inter-school competitions from September to December, and the Islamabad School Games from January to March.

The programme places particular emphasis on inclusivity, ensuring participation from madrassah students, promoting gender equity, and extending outreach to underserved communities across Islamabad.

Key educational bodies, including the Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education and the Inter Board Committee of Chairmen, have endorsed the initiative, describing it as a significant step towards aligning education with physical development and youth engagement.

Officials stated that the initiative aims to revitalise grassroots sports in Islamabad, encourage healthy lifestyles, and establish a sustainable pipeline of future athletes. The campaign will be carried forward under the slogan: "Khelega Islamabad – Taleem ke Saath, Maidan Mein Saath.