Delay in Awarding Scholarships and Cash Prizes to Medal Holders in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sports
PESHAWAR: The sports department of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province has come under scrutiny due to its failure to fulfill promises made to medal holders in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Under-21 Games held in 2021-22.
Despite assurances of monthly scholarships and cash prizes, the recipients have yet to receive their due rewards, causing dismay and disillusionment among young athletes.
In November 2021, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Under-21 Games showcased the talent and dedication of young athletes across various sports disciplines including Judo, Wushu, Karate, Gymnastics, Volleyball, Badminton, Football, Archery, Table Tennis, Boxing, Basketball, and Squash.
Medal winners were promised monthly scholarships and cash prizes by the provincial sports department officials, a commitment that remains unfulfilled even as we enter 2024.
Despite repeated assurances from authorities, the athletes who brought glory to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan on national and international platforms have been left without recognition or support.
This delay in honoring their achievements has significantly eroded the confidence of young sportsmen in the provincial sports department.
In light of the grievances expressed by medal holders and the broader sports community, we urge Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sardar Ali Amin Gandapur,
Advisor Khel Jehan Bakht, and Director of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sports Department Abdul Nasir to expedite the process of awarding cash prizes and initiating monthly scholarship disbursements without further delay.
It is imperative to restore the trust and morale of our athletes and demonstrate the province’s commitment to nurturing and supporting sporting talent.
The delay in fulfilling promises made to medal holders of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Under-21 Games reflects poorly on the provincial sports department and undermines the aspirations of young athletes. Immediate action is warranted to rectify this situation and uphold the integrity of sports in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.