CM Maryam Nawaz Launches Groundbreaking Scholarship Program
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has officially inaugurated the “Honhaar Scholarship Scheme”, a transformative initiative aimed at empowering students through financial assistance and educational opportunities. The inauguration ceremony at Punjab University was marked by enthusiasm and hope for a brighter future for the youth of Pakistan.
The event commenced with a recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by the national anthem and a stirring rendition of an Allama Iqbal poem performed by GC University’s musical society.
Maryam Nawaz revealed that the scheme has already received an overwhelming 70,000 applications, out of which 30,000 scholarships will be awarded. This includes 18,000 for male students and 12,000 for female students, ensuring equal opportunity for all.
New Loan Scheme for Student Entrepreneurs Announced
In addition to scholarships, CM Maryam announced a new interest-free loan program to help students launch their own businesses.
Loans will be interest-free.
Repayment will be facilitated in easy instalments, allowing students to focus on their entrepreneurial ventures without financial stress.
This initiative is designed to reduce the financial burden on families and equip students with the tools needed to achieve financial independence.
Laptop Scheme Relaunch in January 2025
The Chief Minister also announced the next phase of the laptop scheme, which will begin in January 2025. Maryam Nawaz assured students that these programs, including scholarships, will be distributed on a merit basis, regardless of political affiliations.
She emphasized that the laptop and scholarship programs aim to turn the aspirations of underprivileged students into reality, enabling them to excel in their academic and professional pursuits.
Education as a National Priority
During her speech, Maryam Nawaz reaffirmed her commitment to investing in the next generation, calling education her government’s top priority.
She rejected the culture of protests involving weapons, slingshots, and stones, emphasizing that the true identity of Pakistan lies in its students, not in violence.
“Pakistan’s students look better in classrooms and universities, pursuing knowledge rather than protesting at D-Chowk,” she said, urging the youth to focus on education.
Criticism of Previous Governments
Maryam Nawaz criticized past administrations for their failure to invest in education, asking why public funds weren’t utilized to uplift students in the past. “Had previous governments used resources wisely, millions of children could have been educated by now,” she remarked.
She assured that her government is committed to the future of Pakistan’s youth and will continue to make merit-based appointments across Punjab.
First-Ever Scholarships for Private University Students
In a significant milestone, Dr. Farukh Naveed, Secretary of Higher Education, disclosed that students from 15 private universities will also be eligible for scholarships for the first time in Pakistan. Additionally:
- Matric and intermediate position holders will now be included in the scholarship program.
This marks a step forward in making higher education accessible to students across diverse educational institutions.
A Ceremony Full of Warmth and Recognition
CM Maryam Nawaz actively engaged with the students of GC University during the event, creating a welcoming and encouraging environment. Scholarship recipients were honored with a guard of honor by a police contingent, highlighting the importance of their achievements.