Historic Sports Initiative Begins in Lahore
Punjab has launched 19 free Chief Minister Sports Academies in Lahore, marking a major milestone in the province’s sports development efforts.
The initiative is being described as the first program of its kind in Punjab’s history.
Punjab Minister for Sports Faisal Ayub Khokhar inaugurated the academies during a ceremony attended by senior officials, athletes and parents.
More than 2,000 male and female athletes participated in the launch event.
Officials said the project aims to create new opportunities for young athletes and strengthen the province’s sporting culture.
Free Training for Thousands of Young Athletes
The academies will provide year-round training free of cost.
Boys and girls between the ages of 6 and 19 will be eligible to participate.
According to officials, more than 2,500 young athletes have already registered for the program.
The academies will offer structured coaching under experienced trainers.
Participants will also benefit from modern training techniques and access to quality sports facilities.
Sports Minister Faisal Ayub Khokhar said the initiative reflects the vision of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to identify and nurture future sports talent.
Training Across 19 Different Sports Disciplines
The program covers 19 sports disciplines.
These include cricket, football, hockey, basketball, badminton, tennis, boxing, wrestling, swimming, table tennis, karate and taekwondo.
Athletes will also receive training in archery, squash, athletics, kabaddi, wushu, ju-jitsu and laser run.
Officials said the first phase will focus on Lahore.
Future phases will expand the program to district and divisional levels across Punjab.
Director General Sports Punjab Tariq Qureshi said the academies are based on the China model of sports development.
He explained that the primary objective is to bring young people into sports facilities and gradually prepare them for national and international competitions.
Authorities believe the initiative will help develop a new generation of athletes capable of representing Pakistan at the highest levels of sport.
