Generous Sponsors, Bangladeshi Supporters, and Humanist Journalists Make Historic Event Possible
Dhaka: The Punjab University Football Team brought honor to Pakistan by winning the Triangular Inter-University Peace and Non-Violence Football Tournament held from 13–16 November at Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University (SAU), Dhaka. Competing against the host team and a combined Bengal University team, Pakistan emerged victorious, marking a significant achievement in sports diplomacy.
This international participation was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Ch. Saad Nazir (Chairman, Blue Town), Ch. Sarwar Jutt, and Rana Ahmad Saeed, who provided sports kits, shirts, and essential items for the trip. Their support proved central to the team’s successful journey, and the players extended heartfelt gratitude for their encouragement and belief in youth initiatives.
The tournament attracted dignitaries, including the Pakistani High Commissioner in Dhaka, who presided as the chief guest, along with the Vice Chancellor and Pro-Vice Chancellor of SAU. A lively crowd—predominantly university students—filled the grounds despite its rough condition, contributing to an energetic and spirited competition.
The event also received invaluable support from humanist circles and local journalists. Special thanks were extended to Nazrul Islam, Doha Shamsuddin, and several other Bangladeshi humanists and media professionals whose tireless efforts made this once-impossible event a reality. Their dedication to promoting peace, cooperation, and cross-border friendship played a decisive role. Words are not enough to express our gratitude for their commitment and solidarity.
Among the international observers was Decler Hague, an Australian humanist who praised the initiative as a powerful example of peace-building through sports. Throughout their stay, the Pakistani delegation was invited by universities, media organisations, and the Dhaka Press Club to share reflections on sports diplomacy and regional harmony. Volunteers from SAU provided exceptional hospitality, ensuring a memorable experience for the visiting team.
In keeping with the tournament’s spirit of unity and non-violence, all three teams received trophies, symbolizing a “win-win” philosophy where friendship and participation take precedence over defeat.
Travel challenges also shaped the team’s journey. With no direct flights between Pakistan and Bangladesh, the delegation traveled via Colombo, where a 20-hour transit stay on the return proved exhausting. Yet the fatigue turned into celebration when passengers at Colombo Airport learned of Pakistan’s victory. They gathered around the team, chanted “Pakistan Zindabad!”, and captured group photos—an emotional moment of national pride.
Back home, friends and supporters welcomed the team with flowers. The General Secretary of the Pakistan Football Association was present to congratulate the players for their international success. Unfortunately, no representatives from the University of the Punjab were present to receive the victorious team, a disappointment for the players after their commendable performance abroad.
Despite this, the Dhaka tournament remains a landmark achievement in fostering goodwill, mutual respect, and peace through sports. Punjab University’s victory and the overwhelming support from Bangladeshi partners reaffirm that football continues to serve as a powerful bridge of friendship across South Asia.