The University of Karachi organized the first international conference on rehabilitation and sport sciences on May 4, 2026. Political interference is cited as a major cause of the decline of sports in Pakistan. This issue highlights the urgent need for effective governance and policy reforms.
As of midday, officials reported that the Sindh government plans to establish youth centers in seven districts to promote sports among the youth. The conference aimed to produce recommendations for future sports development efforts in Pakistan.
Experts noted that political interference has hindered sports governance significantly. The lack of proper policies and management remains a critical concern for sports development.
Injuries commonly referred to as ‘sports injuries’ in Western contexts are often caused by traffic accidents in Pakistan. This underscores the importance of developing sports medicine within the country.
Former national cricket captain Mohammad Hafeez emphasized that without clear policy and effective governance, success is impossible. Additionally, he stated that discipline is a fundamental principle not only in sports but also in life.
Hockey Olympian Syed Sameer Hussain pointed out that talent often emerges from streets and open grounds rather than structured programs, unlike developed countries where talent-hunt initiatives are common. Sports analyst Noman Niaz remarked that the sector has been consistently neglected, contributing to its decline.
The population of Karachi stands at approximately 30 million, yet the shortage of truly talented individuals poses a challenge for sports development. Pakistan has never treated sports as an industry, which further hinders growth.
The conference concluded with calls for immediate action to address these pressing issues. Recommendations will be reviewed by stakeholders aiming to revitalize sports in Pakistan.
