CM Maryam Nawaz directs to launch scholarship programme, laptop scheme

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed the launch of the “Punjab Honahar Merit Scholarship Programme” and a laptop scheme for students in the province.

The decision was made during a special meeting of the Higher Education Department, where the CM also announced plans to increase the number of meritorious scholarships from 4,000 to 25,000.

Under the scholarship programme, 100% of the fees for students pursuing BS degrees at government and selected private universities will be paid. The CM also emphasized the need to facilitate the private sector in promoting higher education, highlighting its potential to provide opportunities for youth in remote areas.

The meeting also announced to review recommendations for establishing universities under public-private partnerships, with the CM agreeing to facilitate the private sector in this regard.

Additionally, plans were presented for the construction of new universities in Jhelum, Vehari, and Bahawalnagar, as well as the introduction of new market-driven disciplines in colleges with low student numbers.

CM also decided to establish the Punjab Board Coordination Commission for reforms in education board affairs and constituted a high-level ministerial committee to review the affairs of private universities