Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif officially launched the “Honhaar Scholarship Scheme” on Wednesday at a ceremony at Punjab University (PU), where cheques were distributed to deserving students.
The event began with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by the national anthem and a performance of a poem by Allama Iqbal, presented by GC University’s musical society.
CM Maryam Nawaz announced that 70,000 applications were received for the scholarships, out of which 30,000 will be granted. Male students will receive 18,000 scholarships, and 12,000 will go to female students.
She also introduced a new interest-free loan program aimed at helping students launch their own businesses, easing the financial burden on their families. “These loans, amounting to millions of rupees, will be repayable in easy installments, allowing students to work without stress,” she said.
Additionally, the next phase of the laptop distribution scheme will begin in January, with CM Maryam Nawaz assuring that scholarships and resources will be distributed fairly, without regard to political affiliations. “This merit-based scholarship program will help underprivileged students achieve their dreams,” she added.
Highlighting the importance of education, CM Maryam Nawaz stated, “The education of talented students is my responsibility. True politicians invest in the next generation.” She urged students to prioritize education over protests, noting, “Weapons and violence are not the identity of Pakistan. Our identity is in students pursuing education in colleges and universities.”
She criticized past governments for neglecting education despite available public funds. “If those funds had been properly utilized, millions more children would be educated today,” she said, assuring that the current government is committed to securing students’ futures.
The Chief Minister emphasized that all appointments in Punjab’s districts have been made based on merit. She also noted that, for the first time, students from 15 private universities and top matriculation and intermediate performers will be eligible for scholarships.
CM Maryam Nawaz interacted warmly with GC University students and presented scholarships to recipients, who were honored with a guard of honor by a police contingent.
Dr Farukh Naveed, Secretary of Higher Education, shared more details about the scheme, highlighting its inclusivity and focus on supporting talented students across the province.