Karachi, 6 October 2023: Standard Chartered Bank announced the launch of the sixth edition of the
Standard Chartered Karachi United Youth League, a flagship community programme aimed at promoting
sports amongst children.
The objective of the SC KU Youth League is to provide a platform for football teams from across the
underserved areas of Karachi to come together, break barriers and inculcate the spirit and culture of sport
and competition amongst children of the community. The Bank has been sponsoring this league since 2017,
supporting over 5000 children through sports.
This year’s league will see 1200+ boys compete in the age categories: Under 10 years, Under 12 years,
Under 14 years and Under 16 years including a Government School competition as well. The format is that
of a group system from which the top teams qualify directly for the quarter-finals and beyond. This year the
League will also witness an increase in the participation of girls through a Girls tournament involving 180
girls.
A total of 206 matches will be played in six different locations including Khyber Muslim Ground Baldia
Town, Old Golimar Football Ground, Jam Eleven Ground Malir, Karachi United Clifton and Kakari
Ground Lyari which promises to attract football fans from all over Karachi.
Rehan Shaikh, Chief Executive Officer, Standard Chartered Pakistan said, “The Bank has had a long
association with football and we are proud to be leading such a transformational initiative with Karachi
United in Pakistan. Each year the league brings together children from across different communities and
backgrounds onto a level playing field through friendly competition. Beyond the fact that this improves the
skills and game of the children, football has proven to stimulate positive mental health and cognitive
development. We have also seen it contributing considerably to the promotion of tolerance, respect,
perseverance, resilience and equity of the youth engaged.
We are delighted to share that together with our partners, over the five year period the SC KU league
experience has positively impacted over 5000 children with not just football but also coaching in life skills,
team work and other areas of life in general. We feel absolutely privileged to have been able to nurture their
passion for the sport as well as drive greater equality and inclusion of young people.”
Imran Ali, CEO, Karachi United said, “The SC KU Youth League has become synonymous with youth
football and competitions across Karachi’s football communities and has surfaced as the most sought-after
event on the annual sports calendar. This is a testament to the organisation, professionalism, and quality that
Standard Chartered Bank has helped us deliver to the thousands of children who participate.
As we continue to grow, we have added more venues, where matches will be played. Being associated with
the Bank’s Futuremaker programme, we have identified league participants who have now become
teachers, coaches, entrepreneurs and have also joined the Navy.
This would not have been possible without Standard Chartered’s unwavering support and commitment.
Given what we have achieved, we hope to see this partnership flourish further.”
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