ISLAMABAD : Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi held a meeting with two of the province’s most distinguished women athletes, Samar Khan and Karishma Ali. The dialogue centered around the unique challenges faced by female athletes in the region and the need for substantial support and development in sports.
Samar Khan, known for her pioneering spirit in extreme sports and being the first woman to ride a bicycle on the Karakoram Highway and the Biafo Glacier, highlighted the infrastructural and societal hurdles that impede women’s participation in sports. Karishma Ali, an inspiring footballer and the first woman from Chitral to represent Pakistan at national and international football events, shared her experiences and the persistent cultural barriers that need to be addressed to foster a supportive environment for female athletes.
Governor Faisal Kundi assured both athletes of his unwavering support and commitment to becoming an ambassador for all sportsmen and sportswomen in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He emphasized his belief in the immense talent within the province that requires nurturing and promotion on both national and international platforms.
“Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has so much potential, and it is imperative that we provide the necessary support and resources to help our athletes excel,” stated Governor Kundi.
Governor Kundi underscored the importance of promoting a soft and positive image of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which has been marred by ongoing law and order challenges.
He asserted, “Promoting sports and the achievements of our athletes is crucial in reshaping the perception of our province. By showcasing the talents and successes of individuals like Samar and Karishma, we can present a softer, more dynamic image of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.”
The meeting also served as a platform for discussing actionable steps to improve sports facilities and opportunities for women in the region. Governor Kundi expressed his intention to advocate for increased investment in sports infrastructure and to lobby for greater recognition and support for female athletes at various governmental and non-governmental levels.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy by Governor Kundi to drive social progress and economic development in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, leveraging sports as a means to unify communities and promote peace and prosperity.