KARACHI: The Torch Relay for the highly anticipated National Games, Quetta 2023, reached its culmination, successfully traversing Pakistan’s diverse landscapes. In a momentous event held at Akhuwat College University Kasur, the torch was officially handed over to Mr. Ishaq Jamali, Provincial Secretary of Sports & Youth Affairs, Government of Balochistan. The ceremony was organized and hosted by the dedicated students of Akhuwat College University, graced by the esteemed presence of Mr. Tayyab Ikram, President of the International Hockey Federation (FIH).
During the ceremony, Mr. Tayyab Ikram, renowned for his visionary approach to athlete and youth empowerment, engaged in a motivating dialogue with the young students, Dr. Amjad Saqib, esteemed Olympians, and officials of the Pakistan Olympic Association. Dr. Amjad Saqib took the opportunity to highlight the remarkable journey of Akhuwat, a foundation he founded two decades ago, aimed at alleviating poverty through interest-free microfinancing and education. The attendees expressed their admiration for Akhuwat’s vision, focused on fostering a poverty-free society based on principles of compassion and equity.
In his address, Mr. Tayyab Ikram emphasized the invaluable potential of the youth and the importance of providing them with top-tier educational and sporting facilities. He underlined the obligation to support young individuals in becoming future leaders, revealing the commitment of FIH and the Olympic Movement to empower youth through sports and education.
Mr. Ishaq Jamali, reiterating the Government of Balochistan’s dedication, emphasized their commitment to utilizing the spirit of sports and the National Games as a platform to showcase hospitality and peace. The people of Balochistan are eagerly preparing to host the National Games, as students from Balochistan and various regions and provinces of Pakistan unitedly celebrate the values of friendship, harmony, peace, compassion, and equity, symbolized by the Torch of the National Games.
Expressing gratitude, the NOC Pakistan extended their heartfelt thanks to Mr. Tayyab Ikram, President of FIH, for his motivating presence. They also conveyed their sincere appreciation to the students, faculty, and Dr. Amjad Saqib for hosting the Torch at Akhuwat College University, leaving an indelible mark on the event.