Sports play a pivotal role in shaping the students’ health and character. It helps to foster teamwork, discipline, resilience, and leadership skills, which are critical to success both on and off the field. Sports provide a platform for youth to channel their energy positively, promote healthy living, and build lifelong habits of fitness and well-being.

The students in Azad Kashmir’s schools and colleges are equally taking part in sports or other extracurricular activities at par with the rest of Pakistan. Fortunately, Pakistan Army has added up to such activities while actively contributing to the physical development of Kashmiri youth. It is supporting initiatives that promote sports and physical activity, and playing a key role in the well-being of the younger generation.
Last month, the Pakistan Army organized a 5-day Inter-School Sports Competition from September 6 to September 10. APS Aftab Shaheed Muzaffarabad hosted the event, while APS Chinar Murree, APS Rawlakot, APS Bagh, APS Garhi Dopatta, APS Hajira, APS Tararkhel and APS Chakdhamni took part in the competitions. The event brought together the schools and created an atmosphere of healthy competition, camaraderie, and mutual respect. Held in the picturesque city of Muzaffarabad, the event was a resounding success. This event was not just a competition, but a celebration of sportsmanship, unity, and the indomitable spirit of the Kashmiri youth.
The event kicked off with a grand opening ceremony attended by dignitaries, military officials, teachers, and students. The students dressed in their school colors, proudly marched onto the field. The ceremony began with the national anthem, followed by the address of welcome by the Principal of APS Muzaffarabad. A special message from the area commander was also read aloud, in which he emphasized the Army’s unwavering commitment to the well-being and development of Kashmiri youth.
The main sports featured in the event included cricket, football, athletics, volleyball, and badminton. Various other games like hockey, basketball, net ball, badminton, table tennis, races, long jump, shot put and javelin throw were also conducted. The cheering crowds added to the lively atmosphere, making it a truly memorable experience for everyone involved. The closing ceremony included announcements of the winners and distribution of shields and trophies. In fact, it wasn’t about winning or losing; it was about winning the hearts of our youth.