Islamabad, Dec 24: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced that youth will be eligible for loans of up to Rs. 30 million for employment purposes, and 30,000 scholarships will be granted this year.
Speaking at the Talented Scholarship Program’s ceremony in Islamabad, she revealed plans to increase the number of scholarships to 50,000 next year.
She stated, “The future of the country is secure in the hands of our youth. Sixty percent of the scholarships have been awarded to female students, and I was proud to honor the recipients with a Guard of Honor.”
Maryam Nawaz also highlighted a historic achievement, mentioning that for the first time, the Punjab government is offering scholarships to students from private universities. She urged, “All students must work diligently to take on the country’s responsibilities.”
Congratulating the scholarship recipients, she said, “This is the change the people of Pakistan are experiencing. Scholarships are the rightful due of students, and I have fulfilled my duty.” She also criticized her opponents, saying, “Their role is limited to criticism and propaganda. We are helping students acquire modern skills like AI and cybersecurity.”
She further announced, “All scholarships have been granted based on merit. I will soon introduce a laptop scheme for students.”
Regarding future initiatives, she shared that Chinese companies will set up manufacturing plants for electric bikes in Punjab, with plans to distribute 100,000 electric motorcycles to youth by next year.
Encouraging students to consider their role in the country’s future, she emphasized, “Riots and vandalism are not behaviors suited to students. Using abusive language and engaging in misconduct are not qualities of students. What kind of politics is it to send one’s own children abroad while involving poor children in destructive activities?”
