KARACHI: Emphasising sport as a catalyst for youth development, Shaping Tomorrow: A Public–Private Partnership Symposium on Increasing Investments for Youth Development was held here the other day, drawing more than 200 participants from government, private sector, academia, and youth organisations across Sindh.
Organised by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Pathfinder International in collaboration with Sindh sports and youth affairs department, the symposium highlighted how targeted investment in sports infrastructure, talent pathways and community programmes can unlock opportunities for young people while strengthening Sindh’s sporting ecosystem.
Speaking as chief guest, Munawar Ali Mahesar, Secretary, Sports and Youth Affairs Department, said sustained investment in sport was essential for nurturing discipline, teamwork and leadership among youth.
He shared that around 26 district-level youth centres have been established across Sindh with a total allocation of PKR 1 billion, many of which are being positioned as multi-purpose hubs for sports training, fitness and youth engagement.
He also underscored efforts to link young athletes with industry and sponsors through partnerships with chambers of commerce and industrial platforms, enabling clearer pathways from grassroots sport to professional and livelihood opportunities.
Dr Asad Ishaque, Additional Secretary, Sports and Youth Affairs Department, and S.M. Habibullah, Deputy Director, Directorate of Youth Affairs, outlined the government’s strategy to expand public–private partnerships in sport. They stressed that athletes and youth groups must have a voice in shaping sports policies and programmes, encouraging private sector partners to invest in facilities, coaching and competitions. Mr Habibullah added that private sector funds would remain under their own control to ensure transparency and build trust, particularly in sports development projects. Highlighting the scale of need, Golden Mulilo, Head of UNFPA Sindh Sub-Office in Karachi, said investing in sport-based youth development should be a strategic priority.
