Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz unveiled an ambitious student-focused package aimed at empowering the youth through education and innovation. The initiative includes 50,000 scholarships, 100,000 free electric bikes, and interest-free loans to support students in their academic and entrepreneurial pursuits.
Maoist Ambush in Chhattisgarh Kills 9 Indian Security Personnel
Speaking at a scholarship distribution ceremony at Bahauddin Zakaria University, the Chief Minister emphasized the provincial government’s commitment to merit-based programs.
“All scholarships will be awarded purely on merit, without any political bias,” Maryam Nawaz stated. She highlighted education as the foundation of national progress and congratulated the scholarship recipients, their families, and teachers. “I am here not only as a Chief Minister but also as a mother to all of you,” she said.
Key Initiatives
1. Scholarships and Loans
- The scholarship program will expand to 50,000 recipients next year, with plans for international scholarships.
- Full tuition coverage will be provided for students admitted to private or public institutions.
- An interest-free loan scheme will offer up to Rs 30 million to students for startups, fostering entrepreneurship among the youth.
2. Electric Bikes for Students
- After distributing 30,000 electric bikes this year, plans are underway to provide 100,000 free e-bikes next year.
- The initiative aims to address environmental concerns and reduce air pollution.
- Discussions are ongoing with a Chinese company to establish an e-bike manufacturing unit in Punjab.
Focus on Technology and Education
Maryam Nawaz stressed the importance of education in fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and science. “Our aim is to equip students with the tools needed for a secure future in a rapidly changing world,” she said.
She lauded the efforts of the Higher Education Commission and Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar for their support in advancing the province’s educational landscape.
Call for Civil Responsibility
In a pointed reference to former Prime Minister Imran Khan, Maryam Nawaz urged students to reject divisive politics. “Do not become anyone’s fuel or fall for calls to disrupt the country with unrest,” she said, encouraging youth to work for Pakistan’s betterment within democratic and civil boundaries.
Expressing disappointment over young people misled into regrettable actions, she emphasized the value of differing opinions in a democracy, provided actions remain civilized.
Commitment to Youth Development
Reaffirming her dedication to removing obstacles hindering students’ success, Maryam Nawaz concluded with a call for patriotism. “In return, I ask only one thing: never work against your country,” she said.
