Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced a substantial increase in the Honhaar Scholarship Program, raising the fund to Rs100 billion.
CM Punjab, speaking at the Bahauddin Zakariya University in Multan ceremony, CM Maryam disclosed that the program will expand to include an additional 20,000 scholarships starting next year.
In a major push to support young entrepreneurs and innovators, she also unveiled plans for providing interest-free loans of up to Rs3 crore to new businesses and startups. This initiative aims to foster a thriving environment for young business minds in Punjab.
To further boost student support, the Chief Minister revealed plans to distribute one lakh e-bikes to students beginning next academic year. This initiative will also include establishing e-bike charging stations throughout universities and colleges in Punjab, encouraging eco-friendly transportation.
Parho Yaqeen Se!
Chief Minister’s ‘Honhaar’ Scholarship Program at Multan University of Science and Technology is empowering students with opportunities to excel in education and secure a brighter future! pic.twitter.com/XTC0VFumTm
— PMLN (@pmln_org) October 7, 2024Reflecting on her visit to China, CM Maryam expressed her admiration for the advancements in education there and committed to integrating modern IT sciences like artificial intelligence and robotics into Punjab’s educational curriculum. “We will equip our children with the knowledge of artificial intelligence, robotics, and other modern IT sciences,” she stated.
Addressing families’ financial burdens, she said, “The Punjab government will provide loans to students, ensuring they do not become a financial burden on their parents. This is part of our broader initiative to shift towards e-vehicles and ensure clean air for the people of Punjab.”
The Chief Minister also addressed educational support for female students, mentioning the provision of buses to improve girls’ access to education. She highlighted upcoming tech advancements, including a laptop scheme, with the first batch of laptops already received and plans for international scholarships tailored to student’s aspirations.
In her speech, CM Maryam questioned the previous government’s allocation of funds and encouraged the youth to uphold peace and respect state property. She emphasized the importance of maintaining moral values and respecting women in society. “Disrespecting mothers, sisters, and daughters does not suit anyone. Societies are recognized by their moral values and behaviour,” she concluded.
