Lahore: Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced her intention to expand the Punjab government's flagship Honhaar Scholarship Programme to students of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan, emphasizing national unity and educational equity during a ceremony in Dera Ghazi Khan on Monday.
“Requests from KP students for scholarships are pouring in, and I am determined to provide opportunities to the children of KP and Balochistan,” she said. “I belong to Punjab, but I am a Pakistani first,” she added.
The chief minister reassured students that financial constraints would not hinder deserving, hardworking individuals from accessing higher education. She criticized divisive politics and stressed the importance of building a united, educated, and progressive Pakistan.
Highlighting her administration's focus on education, Ms. Nawaz announced the establishment of an incubation centre at Ghazi University, Dera Ghazi Khan, and pledged to address students' educational needs comprehensively.
She also outlined plans to distribute 50,000 scholarships next year, expand the programme to second and third-year students, and provide laptops and e-bikes to enhance their educational pursuits.
Addressing the dangers of misinformation, Ms. Nawaz cautioned students against believing or sharing unverified social media content, describing fake news as a significant challenge facing Pakistan.
“While truth is tying its shoelaces, lies circle the world,” she remarked, encouraging students to prioritize research and verification.
Ms. Nawaz also criticized the previous government for fostering divisions and damaging the future of the youth, reiterating her administration’s dedication to educational reforms.
She pledged that Honhaar scholarships would be awarded strictly on merit, promising to resign if favoritism was proven in even a single case.
“You are the superheroes of this nation,” she told the students, urging them to work hard, respect their parents, and shape Pakistan’s future with their achievements.
The chief minister concluded by affirming the Punjab government’s commitment to empowering the youth, promoting peace, and fostering unity across Pakistan. She promised to revisit students with more resources and initiatives, ensuring that education remains a cornerstone of national progress.
