Mubashar Nadeem
In Pakistan today, many of us—especially the youth—are becoming more inactive than ever before. From early childhood, we are caught in a routine that revolves around screens, school pressure, and urban living. Outdoor activities, physical games, and sports are slowly fading from our everyday lives. This shift may seem normal, but it’s having serious long-term consequences on our health, confidence, and national development. That’s why it’s time to bring the simple but powerful message—“Get Active, Stay Fit, Play Sports”—to every home, school, and street in Pakistan.
Pakistan is a young country, with most of its population under the age of 30. But despite this demographic advantage, we are not giving our youth the tools to stay healthy and active. In many schools, there is no proper playground, no sports teacher, and no regular time for physical activity. Parents, too, often focus only on academics, thinking that sports are a waste of time. This mindset is harmful. Playing sports not only keeps the body fit—it sharpens the mind, reduces stress, and builds strong personalities. When a child plays a game, they learn discipline, teamwork, and patience—qualities that no classroom lecture can teach.
We often talk about health, but we forget that health isn’t just about food or medicine. Regular physical activity is essential for staying healthy. Sports improve heart function, build muscles, boost stamina, and even strengthen our immune system. But the benefits don’t stop at the body. When we play sports, our brain releases happy hormones—endorphins—that help reduce depression and anxiety. In a country where mental health is rarely discussed, sports can become a natural way to help people manage stress and feel better about themselves.
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One of the most beautiful things about sports is that they bring people together. Whether rich or poor, Urdu-speaking or Balochi, male or female—on a playing field, everyone is equal. In Pakistan, where divisions often exist between different regions and communities, sports can build unity and harmony. A cricket match between different districts, a football tournament in a local park, or even a badminton game between neighbors—these are not small things. They help build trust, friendships, and shared pride. In this way, sports can quietly but powerfully strengthen the social fabric of our country.
Sadly, in many parts of Pakistan, girls are still discouraged from playing sports. They are told it’s not ladylike, or that there are no safe spaces for them to play. This needs to change. When girls play, they become stronger, more confident, and more independent. Research around the world shows that girls who participate in sports are more likely to stay in school longer, marry later, and contribute more to their communities. We must provide safe, welcoming, and equal spaces for girls and women to play—whether in schools, colleges, or local parks. This isn’t just a women’s issue—it’s a national development issue.
If we truly want to build a healthier Pakistan, we must start with schools. Every school should have at least one playground and a regular sports period. There should be annual sports competitions, inter-school games, and trained coaches to guide students. Sports must not be treated as an optional hobby but as a part of the regular learning experience. Students who engage in physical activity perform better academically and develop greater confidence. Parents and teachers need to understand that sports are not a distraction—they are preparation for life.
In most cities and towns in Pakistan, there is a serious lack of safe and well-maintained public spaces for playing. Parks are either overcrowded, poorly managed, or taken over by construction. If we want our children and youth to play, we must provide them with proper spaces. Local governments need to invest in building and maintaining public sports facilities. Every community—urban or rural—deserves access to grounds where children and adults can play safely. It’s a basic right, not a luxury.
Sports are not just good for health—they’re good for the economy too. Think about it: coaching centers, local tournaments, manufacturing of sports equipment, sportswear, event management, media coverage—these are all areas where jobs and businesses can grow. Countries like India, Turkey, and South Africa are already investing in sports industries. Pakistan has the talent and the passion; we just need proper planning and support. If promoted the right way, the sports industry can provide thousands of jobs and support local businesses.
We need to change our attitude toward sports. Playing should not be seen as “wasting time,” and only studying should not be seen as the only way to succeed. Sports build discipline, courage, and respect—qualities we badly need in society. Our religion, culture, and history all support physical fitness. Even in Islamic teachings, activities like swimming, horse riding, and archery were encouraged. So instead of discouraging our children from playing, let’s encourage them to move, to sweat, to compete—and to grow.
We need a nationwide campaign that encourages every Pakistani to get up and move. The message—“Get Active, Stay Fit, Play Sports”—should be seen on TV, in schools, on billboards, and across social media. Celebrities, athletes, teachers, and community leaders should all take part. Campaigns must focus on urban and rural areas alike, and especially include girls, children with disabilities, and lower-income communities. This is not just about sports—it’s about building a healthy and united future.
Pakistan has the talent, the youth, and the passion to become a sporting nation. All we need is vision and commitment. Let’s not wait for another health crisis or a lost generation. Let’s act now. Whether you are a parent, teacher, student, community leader, or policymaker—you have a role to play. Start small. Join a local game. Take your child to the park. Support your school’s sports day.
Because when we play, we grow. When we grow, our country grows.
