ISLAMABAD-The International Islamic University (IIU) annual Sports Gala commenced on Wednesday where students demonstrated different sports. The event was inaugurated by the University’s Rector Dr Masoom Yasinzai and President IIUI Dr Ahmed Yousif Al-Draiweesh.

The statement issued said that the students demonstrated a colorful flag march at the football ground of the male campus.

In the opening ceremony of 15th annual sports gala of the university, a number of events such as first-aid race, sack race, three-legged race and a 100-metre race were held in which the students, the faculty members and the employees participated.

Dr Masoom Yasinzai in his address said that involving youth in constructive activities is a prerequisite to defeat negative attitudes. He said the goal of academic excellence can be reached by keeping the youth busy in education, sports and co-curricular activities equally. Dr Masoom reiterated his resolve that students of IIUI will be provided with best possible sports facilities, while he also stressed upon the organizers to raise the frequency of sports activities.

 “IIUI has marked an international level sports complex in its vision and future plans which will be one of the dynamic recognitions of the university.  He further said youth were an omen of the bright future of the Muslim Ummah, and they must be provided with opportunities to take part in positive activities. President IIUI stressed upon the students to make the country’s progress as their top goal.

He added that the progress of Pakistan was the progress of Muslim world and youth possessed a vital role in this regard.

The inauguration ceremony was also attended by Vice Presidents, deans, directors, students’ advisor (male) Dr Tariq Javed, Sports In charge Chaudhary Khalid and organizing staff of the students’ advisor office, employees and a large number of students. Earlier, Dr Tariq Javed welcomed the IIUI Rector and President and said that sports activities were as important as academic activities. He vowed to continue efforts for providing sports facilities to the varsity students. At the end, winners of the race met the President IIUI and were awarded on their success.