CM Maryam Nawaz Unveils Plan for Education City in Lahore
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has unveiled an ambitious plan to establish an education city in Lahore, designed to attract leading global universities to open campuses in the province.
The initiative aligns with her vision to elevate educational standards in Punjab while fostering international collaboration and opportunities for students.
Speaking at the announcement, Maryam Nawaz also shared plans to introduce international scholarships for Punjab’s youth, enabling them to pursue higher education at some of the world’s top institutions. These scholarships aim to provide financial support to students from all backgrounds, empowering them to achieve their academic goals.
She also took the opportunity to highlight Pakistan’s improving economic landscape, citing a rising stock market and declining inflation. Crediting the government’s dedicated efforts, she expressed optimism about the country’s ongoing progress.
Maryam Nawaz Focuses on Youth Empowerment with New Scholarship Initiatives:
. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz continues to prioritize youth empowerment, announcing scholarships and resources to support students from all walks of life, including those enrolled in private universities.
. Addressing ongoing political criticism, she stated, “As a mother, I would never tell anyone to harm or neglect their children while others stay in comfort.” She also noted that attacks from political opponents, rooted in criticism and propaganda, have only strengthened her resolve.
. On Sunday, she launched Phase II of the Honhar Scholarship Programme, an initiative set to cover the educational expenses of 30,000 students annually for the next four years. The program ensures 100% of educational costs for successful applicants, eliminating financial barriers for students in Punjab to pursue higher education.
. The scholarships extend across 65 universities, 12 medical and dental colleges, and 359 colleges in Punjab, encompassing 68 diverse subjects. Eligibility criteria include being under 22 years of age, holding a Punjab domicile, and having parents with a monthly income of less than Rs. 300,000.
. To uphold transparency, applications were processed through an online portal and rigorously reviewed by committees at both the institutional and provincial levels, under the supervision of Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb.
. Scholarship distribution is already underway, with 2,473 scholarships awarded at the University of Punjab and 2,570 at FAST University Islamabad, particularly benefiting students from the Rawalpindi Division. At UET Lahore, 1,886 scholarships were granted, with 1,660 awarded to public sector university students and 637 to private university students.
. These initiatives mark significant strides in education and youth empowerment in Punjab. By removing financial hurdles and fostering equal opportunities, the Punjab government aims to nurture a generation of leaders ready to shape the future.
