ISLAMABAD: In a decisive push to reform Pakistan’s sports landscape, Prime Minister’s Youth Program (PMYP) Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan declared that the era of favoritism in sports has come to an end.
Emphasizing the government’s unwavering commitment to youth development, including a high-level meeting to be held soon with all stakeholders regarding the Arshad Nadeem Center of Excellence and its allocated funding.
He expressed these views on Wednesday during a meeting with a delegation of the Rawalpindi-Islamabad Sports Journalists Association (RISJA), led by its President Abu Bakar bin Talat at the Prime Minister Secretariat.
Mashhood stated that the government was actively working on infrastructure development, departmental sports revival, and talent hunting. Under the Prime Minister Youth Program, players’ development initiatives are being implemented this year across nine different sports. “We have immense talent in the country, and we must provide opportunities based on merit,” he emphasized.
He added that on the prime minister’s directive, a meeting will soon be held to finalize plans for the Arshad Nadeem Center of Excellence. A significant amount of funds has been allocated for this project, and a Master Plan will be developed in consultation with all stakeholders, including the Pakistan Olympic Association.
Mashhood also criticized internal elements within the Pakistan Sports Board, stating: “A mafia exists within the PSB, but we are working to fix the system of sports in the country.” He added that academies will be established to support talented players and highlighted the need to continue the positive sports culture previously initiated in Punjab.
Commending the media’s role, Mashhood said: “The media has always played a constructive part, and I am committed to supporting the welfare of the Rawalpindi-Islamabad Sports Journalists Association.” He concluded by noting that the government was actively working to create employment opportunities for the youth.
