Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz launches a laptop scheme and merit scholarships for students

LAHORE: Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, launched the CM Laptop Scheme for students on Thursday, aiming to provide 40,000 laptops across the province. The initiative is designed to support students in their academic journey by equipping them with the necessary tools for learning and research.

The CM also inaugurated the “CM Honorary Scholarship” program in the Faisalabad division, distributing scholarships to outstanding students. This scholarship initiative is part of the provincial government’s efforts to reward academic excellence and promote education across Punjab.

During her visit to the new campus of GC University in Faisalabad, CM Maryam Nawaz was warmly welcomed by the students, with chants of “Welcome” filling the air. She took the time to meet with lawmakers and interact with the students, who presented her with a portrait of her mother, Begum Kulsoom Nawaz, and a shawl adorned with portraits of her father, former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. The students expressed their admiration by calling her “The Best Lady, Maryam Nawaz.”

In a heartwarming gesture, CM Maryam Nawaz joined the students on stage and, at their request, led the national anthem. She praised special student Aswa Aziz for playing the anthem on the flute, showcasing her exceptional talent. The environment became emotional as the students sang the national song, “Yeh Watan Hamara Hai Hum Hai Pasban Iske,” adding a patriotic touch to the occasion.

At the event, students also presented portraits of both Nawaz Sharif and Kulsoom Nawaz, along with a specially designed dupatta that featured slogans of excellence. CM Maryam Nawaz expressed her deep appreciation for these thoughtful gifts and held them up for the attendees to admire.

In a first for Punjab, female police officers gave a guard of honour to the students, under the direction of CM Maryam Nawaz. The disciplined parade demonstrated the government’s commitment to empowering women and showing respect for the students’ achievements.

The CM also took time to engage with students, posing for selfies with them and sitting with a student who had delivered a speech during the ceremony.

As part of the scholarship distribution, a total of 4,690 students from the Faisalabad Division will benefit from a total of Rs. 201.19 million in scholarships. Among them, 3,211 students from public sector universities will receive Rs. 176.27 million, while 101 students from private sector universities will receive Rs. 2.89 million in merit-based scholarships. Students from public sector colleges will also receive a total of Rs. 22.03 million in scholarships.

Institutions like Government College Women University Faisalabad, University of Jhang, Faisalabad Medical University, Government College University Faisalabad, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, and The University of Faisalabad are among the beneficiaries of this initiative.