ISLAMABAD: A meeting chaired by Chairman of Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP) Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan on Wednesday discussed recognising e-sports as an official sport in Pakistan and developing a structured framework to foster its growth.

The meeting brought together representatives from Ignite, Pakistan Sports Board (PSB), Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Nayatel, Antakh Ventures, FAST University, the Ministry of IT & Telecom (MoITT), DG Sports All Provinces, and the Higher Education Commission (HEC).

The discussions cantered on recognising e-sports as an official sport in Pakistan and developing a structured framework to foster its growth.

The PMYP chairman emphasised the immediate formation of dedicated committees and subcommittees to drive policy development and infrastructure planning.

The meeting also discussed the establishment of gaming arenas, training centres, and coaching facilities, which was highlighted as a priority.

“Efforts will be made to officially recognise e-sports under national sports regulations, enabling structured governance and funding. Nayatel and other telecom companies were urged to introduce specialised, high-speed internet packages catering to the needs of competitive gamers,” the press release said.

It further added that universities will play a vital role in talent discovery through e-sports clubs, scholarships, and organised gaming activities.

“Pakistan will take inspiration from Saudi Arabia’s dedicated gaming infrastructure, aiming to develop a similar model tailored to local needs,” the press release went on to say.

It said that meeting proposed partnerships with China, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey to explore e-sports’ inclusion in global competitive events, including the Olympics.

Fasih Mehta highlighted the necessity of forming game development studios, expanding community participation, and ensuring high-speed internet accessibility for gamers.

He also emphasised the importance of clear regulation and taxation policies to sustain the industry’s growth.

Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan said: “E-sports is the future, and Pakistan will not stay behind. Committees and subcommittees will be formed to structure this initiative, ensuring that e-gaming is officially recognised as a sport in Pakistan.”

He said the government is setting a six-month milestone to develop a strong e-sports ecosystem that nurtures talent, promotes competitive gaming, and provides global opportunities for our youth.

Published in Dawn, March 13th, 2025