CM Maryam stated that students belong in universities, not at D-Chowk.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday officially inaugurated the long-awaited “Honhaar Scholarship Scheme,” marking a step closer towards deserving students in the entire province of Punjab. The event was celebrated in Punjab University, as education and empowerment were the motto.
The ceremony began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by the national anthem and a beautiful performance of an Allama Iqbal poem, by the musical society of GC University.
30,000 Scholarships for Meritorious Students
CM Maryam Nawaz while announcing that 70,000 applications have been received and 30,000 scholarships would be provided. Out of these 18,000 scholarships will be for males and 12,000 for females. Thus the program has a gender-sensitive approach to providing scholarships.
She stated that this merit-based scholarship program is specifically aimed at lifting up the deprived students and making their dreams come true.
Interest-Free Loans for Small Businessmen
The Chief Minister also introduced an interest-free loan scheme in an effort to further alleviate the financial burdens of students. Under this scheme, loans worth millions of rupees can be availed by the students and repaid through easy installments.
“These loans will help students initiate their business and stabilize the family income so that they could concentrate on their studies and future,” she added.
Recommencement of Laptop Distribution Scheme
Maryam Nawaz also unveiled the laptop distribution scheme to be re-launched from January. She promised that the program would not be implemented with political discrimination but would be open to all on equal terms.
“This is part of our commitment to empowering students with the tools they need to succeed in the modern world,” she said.
Investment in Pakistan’s Future
During her speech, CM Maryam Nawaz emphasized that education should be given precedence over divisive practices.
“The right politician always invests in the future generation,” she stated. Adding on, students are the authentic personification of Pakistan. She implored them to prioritize education rather than rioting or indulging in unruly demonstrations.
“Not a single one of us want to see our children carry sticks and stones; instead, they should be indoors in schools and libraries searching for knowledge,” she told.
Opposition Against the Previous Governments
Maryam Nawaz used the platform to call out the past regimes and ask them why they had never invested in education.
Public funds existed then too, so why didn’t they reach you? If they had, millions of children would be educated today,” she said. She added that the present government has plans to rectify those deficiencies and ensure a future that is bright for the students.
Opportunities Opening Up Across Public and Private Institutions
For the first time, the Honhaar Scholarship Scheme includes students from 15 private universities in Pakistan, in addition to those from public institutions. Matric and intermediate position holders will also be covered by this scheme, which will reach a wider section of people with financial support.
Merit and Excellence Celebrated
The Chief Minister reiterated her commitment to meritocracy, saying that all district-level appointments in Punjab have been made on merit.
Scholarship recipients were accorded a guard of honor by a police contingent, and CM Maryam Nawaz warmly interacted with students, further motivating them to pursue their aspirations.
Secretary of Higher Education, Dr. Farukh Naveed also addressed the gathering, telling the structure and impact of the scholarship scheme.
A Brighter Future for Pakistan’s Students
The Honhaar Scholarship Scheme is a bold step in empowering Pakistan’s youth and giving equal opportunities for education. By investing in students, the Punjab government is creating a future that is both educated and prosperous. It reflects the vision of the government in transforming education as a tool for societal development, allowing every student to achieve his or her best.
