Lahore, A four-day workshop titled “Innovating and Designing Engaging Application in Sports Promoting Outreach, Responsibility, and Teamwork (IDEA-SPORT)” aimed at fostering leadership in women through sports, concluded at the University of Education in Lahore. This collaborative effort between the U.S. Consulate General in Lahore and the University of Education, featuring contributions from Baylor University and the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, was part of a U.S. government-funded initiative.
According to University of Education – Lahore, the workshop brought together sports educators, trainers, and coaches from ten schools and four universities across Punjab. The program was designed to equip Pakistani sports educators with the necessary tools, experience, knowledge, and support to encourage young women’s participation in sports. Emphasizing the physical, mental, and leadership benefits of sports, the workshop highlighted sports as a medium for developing teamwork, discipline, cooperation, and leadership skills in students.
U.S. Consul General in Lahore Kristin Hawkins addressed the participants, emphasizing the significant role of educators, coaches, and mentors in nurturing young women’s leadership abilities through sports. She noted that the competencies gained from sports participation are invaluable for personal development and can catalyze positive change in various life pursuits.
Professor Dr. Muhammad Alam Saeed, Vice Chancellor of the University of Education, reflected on the demographic landscape of Pakistan, noting the predominance of youth and the critical role of women within this group. He stressed the importance of women’s education and training in addressing contemporary challenges, pointing out that women’s empowerment extends its positive impact beyond the individual level to families, society, and the nation.
The workshop participants, upon returning to their respective universities, are expected to implement new policies, coaching practices, and sports curricula to enhance girls’ access to athletics. This effort aims to create new opportunities for girls in various sports.
The event saw the presence of William Sterrett from Baylor University, Texas (USA), Prof. Dr. Ahsan Bashir from the University of Education, along with academic directors of UE, officials from the American Consulate, and numerous students.