The annual IBA Sports Gala 2025 kicked off on Wednesday with great enthusiasm and spirit at the PCB Ground, University of Sindh. The two-day event was inaugurated by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Fateh Muhammad Marri, marking the beginning of a vibrant celebration of sportsmanship, teamwork and healthy competition.

The opening ceremony brought together an impressive gathering of academic leaders including Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Abdul Sattar Shah, Dean Faculty of Commerce and Business Administration Professor Dr. Javed Ahmed Chandio, Director IBA Professor Dr. Imamuddin Khoso, Registrar Professor Dr. Mushtaque Ali Jariko, Dr. Ayesha Syed, Dr. Sobia Shah, Dr. Farhan Zeb Khaskheli, Dr. Abdul Sami Shaikh, Dr. Intezar Lashari, other faculty members, students and guests.

The first day of the gala featured a vibrant array of competitions including cricket matches for boys and girls, thrilling badminton games, a strategic Ludo tournament and an engaging chess competition. The ground echoed with cheers and applause as students showcased their sporting skills and team spirit.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony, Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Fateh Muhammad Marri lauded the initiative of IBA for organizing such a dynamic event that promoted physical fitness and a sense of unity among students.

He said that sports were an integral part of student life and played a crucial role in character building, discipline and leadership development.

He said that participation in games helped youth learn teamwork and resilience, qualities essential for professional success. The Vice-Chancellor encouraged students to balance academics with co-curricular activities and appreciated the efforts of the organizing committee for arranging the event with zeal and dedication. He further expressed confidence that the Sports Gala would continue to foster harmony, mutual respect and a healthy competitive spirit among students.

Director of IBA Professor Dr. Imamuddin Khoso speaking on the occasion said that the Institute aimed to create a holistic educational environment where academic excellence and physical well-being go hand in hand.

He added that all organizing teams had made meticulous preparations to ensure that the event was conducted smoothly, maintaining discipline and enthusiasm throughout.

He appreciated the active participation of both male and female students and noted that such activities encouraged inclusivity and teamwork.

Dr. Khoso further stated that IBA’s Sports Gala reflected the Institute’s commitment to nurturing leadership, creativity and sportsmanship among its students.

The two-day gala will continue on Thursday with girls’ cricket matches, a musical chairs game and various other competitions. The event will conclude with the final matches and a Trophy and Awards Distribution Ceremony, where outstanding athletes and teams will be honored for their achievements.