Loan Scheme of Up to Rs.3 Crore Launched to Empower Youth
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced a transformative initiative to support young people, offering loans of up to Rs.3 crore to foster employment opportunities. Additionally, 30,000 scholarships are being awarded this year, with plans to increase the number to 50,000 next year.
Speaking at a scholarship distribution ceremony under the Talented Scholarship Program in Islamabad, Maryam Nawaz expressed her commitment to nurturing the country’s future. She highlighted that 60% of the scholarships have been granted to female students and proudly recognized the achievements of young scholars with a Guard of Honor.
For the first time in Pakistan’s history, the Punjab government is extending scholarships to students from private universities. “This is a significant milestone,” she remarked. Encouraging students to strive for excellence, she said, “Our youth must prepare themselves to shoulder the nation’s responsibilities.”
Maryam Nawaz also took the opportunity to address critics, emphasizing her government’s dedication to providing students with modern skills, such as AI and cybersecurity. “Unlike those who focus only on criticism and propaganda, we are equipping our youth for a brighter future,” she stated.
She further assured that all scholarships have been awarded purely on merit and announced plans to launch a laptop scheme. In addition, Chinese companies will establish manufacturing units for electric bikes in Punjab, with 100,000 electric bikes set to be distributed to young people next year.
Calling on students to contribute positively to the nation, she condemned actions such as riots and vandalism, urging them to uphold the dignity of education and constructive behavior. “Sending their children abroad while involving the poor in destructive politics—what kind of leadership is that?” she questioned.
The Chief Minister concluded by congratulating scholarship recipients, describing this initiative as a vital step towards the nation’s progress.
