PMYP, POA sign LoI to promote youth empowerment through sports

The Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP) and the Pakistan Olympic Association (POA) signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) here Friday to strengthen youth development through sports, Olympic education and the promotion of Olympic values nationwide.
The agreement was signed by Chairman PMYP Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan and POA President Arif Saeed, aiming to create structured opportunities for young people from grassroots to elite levels through coordinated sports initiatives.
Under the LoI, both sides will work together to promote youth engagement, talent identification and progression, while also supporting programmes on Olympic education, integrity, Safe Sport, ethical conduct and the prevention of competition manipulation.
A major focus of the partnership is the advancement and leadership of women in sport through inclusive programming and awareness campaigns aligned with the Olympic values of excellence, respect and friendship.
According to the framework, the National Olympic Committee of Pakistan will provide technical expertise and programme design support, while PMYP will use its digital and institutional networks to reach and engage youth across the country.
The two sides may also establish a Joint Steering Committee to prepare annual action plans, monitor progress and coordinate nationwide initiatives such as Olympic Day celebrations, youth festivals and sports awareness campaigns.
The LoI will remain valid for four years and may be extended by mutual agreement. It carries no financial obligation for either side, while all initiatives will be implemented through mutually agreed annual plans.
Speaking on the occasion, Rana Mashhood said sports are not merely a recreational activity but a powerful tool for nation building, character development, discipline and leadership.
“Through this partnership with the Pakistan Olympic Association, PMYP is committed to ensuring that every young Pakistani, including girls and women, has access to structured sports opportunities and Olympic education,” he said.
“This collaboration will create pathways from grassroots participation to international excellence. Arshad Nadeem is a wonderful example of how youth, if given opportunity, can achieve anything.” Chief PMYP added.
He said the PMYP envisions a healthier, stronger and more confident youth, adding that the LoI marks a step towards aligning youth empowerment with international standards of integrity, ethics and safe sporting environments.
POA President Arif Saeed said the POA remained committed to promoting Olympic values across the country and described the LoI as a strategic initiative to integrate Olympic education and sports culture within youth development platforms.
“This will help strengthen the Olympic movement in Pakistan and inspire the next generation of athletes and leaders,” Mr Saeed added.
He further said that the association looked forward to working closely with PMYP to ensure safe sport practices, integrity in competition and greater inclusion, particularly for women, so Pakistan could progress confidently in national and international sports arenas.