Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Maryam Nawaz has announced the launch of the second phase of the Honhaar Scholarship program, extending educational and skill development opportunities to an additional 30,000 students across the province. In a post on her official X account, she described the aspirations of the youth as “the heartbeat of Punjab’s future,” reaffirming her government’s commitment to empowering the next generation.
Since its inception in 2023, the Honhaar program has supported over 80,000 students, with 50,000 currently enrolled and another 30,000 set to join under the latest expansion. The initiative offers training in 67 diverse fields, equipping students with industry-relevant skills to enhance their career prospects. The Chief Minister announced that the online portal for applications is now open, urging eligible youth to apply with confidence and dedication.
The scholarship aims to bridge educational gaps, strengthen the province’s workforce, and foster socio-economic progress. While the program has been lauded for its inclusivity and focus on skills-based learning, critics argue that long-term impact will depend on the quality of training, job market integration, and transparency in the selection process. Supporters, however, see it as a vital step towards reducing unemployment and uplifting underprivileged students.
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The expansion reflects the government’s ambition to position Punjab’s youth as key drivers of the province’s future growth. Yet, its true success will be measured not just by the number of scholarships granted, but by the real opportunities and sustainable livelihoods they help create.