Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz inaugurated the Honhar Scholarship Program for the Gujranwala Division during a ceremony at Government College University Sialkot, aimed at supporting talented students from remote areas and promote higher education across the province.
Maryam Nawaz expressed her affection for the students, took selfies with them, and commended their talent and passion.
During the ceremony, she highlighted the program’s transparency and merit-based selection, stating, "Not a single scholarship has been given on recommendation, but on 100% merit. This is your trust, and I am answerable to Allah and the people of Punjab."
She further stated that she has been in office as the CM for 11 months and not a single appointment has been made on recommendation.
On Maryam Nawaz's instructions, a guard of honour was presented to deserving students by a contingent of Punjab Police. Heart-warming scenes unfolded as students shared their personal struggles. Nayab Fatima, a student whose mother is battling cancer, received a hug and a promise from the CM to cover her mother’s medical expenses.
Maryam reiterated her dedication to youth empowerment, stating that 65% of Pakistan’s population consists of young people. She announced plans to increase the scholarship count from 30,000 to 50,000 in the upcoming budget, adding that the scholarships were being given to first-year students now, and would be expanded to second- and third-year students later.
Additionally, she unveiled initiatives such as free laptops for students scoring over 65% and the distribution of 100,000 electric bikes to further support education and mobility.
"My confidence in girl power has increased even more," she remarked. She advised parents to trust and believe in their daughters, who will make them immensely proud. "If education up to intermediate level is not enough for boys, then why is it for girls? If they get enough support, girls can achieve unimaginable things."
Maryam Nawaz also highlighted improvements in economic indicators, inflation reduction, and the government's commitment to rebuilding Pakistan’s economy.
Maryam Nawaz’s interaction with students and commitment to education left a lasting impression. "This love is my life’s greatest wealth," she remarked, reinforcing her pledge to uplift the youth and pave the way for a brighter future in Punjab.
