The inaugural ceremony of the Talent Hunt Boxing Youth Sports League, organized under the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, was held at the University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore. The league has been launched under the supervision of the Federal Higher Education Commission (HEC), with participation from a large number of students from universities across Pakistan.

 

Chairman Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, attended the ceremony as the chief guest, and delivered the keynote address.

 

Before the opening ceremony, Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan held a special meeting with Vice Chancellor UET Lahore, Prof. Dr. Shahid Munir (TI). The meeting focused on the university’s ongoing development, modern initiatives, and its improved international ranking.

 

Speaking on the occasion, Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan said that the appointment of Dr. Shahid Munir as Vice Chancellor was made purely on merit and was an exemplary decision by the government. He added that UET’s improved global standing is clear proof that merit, transparency, and hard work are the university’s top priorities.

 

He further emphasized that all talent in higher education institutions and sports will be selected solely on the basis of ability, and no recommendations or external pressure will be tolerated. “The youth of Pakistan are our most valuable national asset. Empowering them through quality education, skills, and employment opportunities is among the government’s top priorities. We are ensuring that young people are equipped with modern skills and emerging technologies,” he said.

 

He also highlighted that Pakistan will host the South Asian Games (SAF Games) from January 23 to 31 next year.

 

In his address, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Shahid Munir said that UET Lahore has always played a leading role in nurturing young talent, promoting sports, and organizing healthy activities for students. “Talent Hunt Youth Sports League programmes provide an excellent platform for young people to showcase their abilities,” he added. He thanked the government and the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme for granting UET the honor of hosting this important national event.

 

The Vice Chancellor also stressed the need to promote Pakistan’s national sport, hockey, and requested government support for laying a new AstroTurf at UET to strengthen hockey infrastructure on campus. He further said that the university is focusing on upgrading sports facilities, improving the sports complex, and creating new opportunities for students to help them grow to international standards.

 

The ceremony was attended by the Chairman Sports Committee, heads of various departments, and a large number of students from different universities across Pakistan.