LAHORE: (Friday, January 23, 2026): Punjab University Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Muhammad Ali has announced a cash prize of Rs 100,000 for PU players who would become national champion, while players securing second position will be awarded Rs 50,000. He also announced a cash prize of Rs 100,000 for any university player selected for a national team in the future.He was addressing a ceremony organized by the Punjab University Directorate of Sports in honor of athletes who showed outstanding performance in the National Games, inter-departmental sports, and other competitions. The ceremony was attended by President Academic Staff Association Dr. Amjad Magsi, DG Dr. Rehan Sadiq, Chairperson Sports Finance Committee Dr. Farah Rauf, Director Sports Dr. Shabbir Sarwar, and male and female students who secured positions in various competitions. While addressing the ceremony, Dr Ali said that sports are as important as classroom education. He said that students who take interest in sports are more successful in life. He said that Punjab University players are our asset and we are proud of them, and that the university will continue to patronize all sports activities. He added that it is our responsibility to strengthen the personalities of students. The Vice Chancellor also announced an increase in remuneration for coaches who show outstanding performance. Director Sports Dr. Shabbir Sarwar, while speaking at the ceremony, said that the Vice Chancellor has taken revolutionary steps for the promotion of sports at the university. He said that after 16 years, the Punjab University bodybuilding team has become national champion, and that a university athlete has also set a new record in the National Games. He added that renovation of the university stadium and re-opening of the swimming pool were made possible under the patronage of the Vice Chancellor. At the end of the ceremony, prizes were distributed among athletes who won various competitions.