The 9th Al Zarooni Students Olympic Games officially began in Karachi under the banner of the Pakistan Students Olympic Association. The multi-sport event, which was delayed by two days due to heavy rains in the city, will continue until September 28 and feature participation from schools, colleges, and universities across the country.
Opening Ceremony
The opening ceremony is scheduled for Friday at 5 PM at the KMC Sports Complex, Kashmir Road, Karachi. The event will be inaugurated by Sheikh Ali Zarooni, head of Buraq Sports Private Limited (UAE).
President of the Pakistan Students Olympic Association, Maqbool Arain, shared details of the event, confirming that competitions will take place across three main venues in the city:
- PSB Coaching Centre, Karachi
- KMC Sports Complex, Kashmir Road
- Mini Sports Complex, Nazimabad
Participation and Scope
More than 150 educational institutions from all over Pakistan are competing in the Games. Both male and female athletes will take part, with 24 different sports disciplines included in the schedule.
Sports Schedule
The Games feature a wide range of events spread across the 10-day competition:
- Futsal: September 18-25
- Cricket (Tape Ball) & Throwball: September 18-28
- Gymnastics: September 19-20
- Athletics, Rope Skipping & Catch Ball: September 20
- Flying Disc & Netball: September 21
- Hockey: September 23-24
- Tug of War: September 24
- Basketball & Volleyball: September 26–28
- Pickleball: September 27-28
- Badminton, Table Tennis, Taekwondo, Padel, Dodgeball, Fitness, Chess: September 27
- Archery, Skating & Cycling: September 28
Closing Ceremony
The closing ceremony will be held on September 28, marking the end of the competition. Winning teams and athletes will be awarded trophies, medals, and certificates in recognition of their achievements.
A Platform for Young Talent
The Al Zarooni Students Olympic Games provide a crucial platform for young athletes to showcase their skills across multiple sports. With wide participation and structured competition, the event not only encourages physical fitness but also promotes teamwork and sporting culture among Pakistan’s student community.
