Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif officially inaugurated the “Honhaar Scholarship Scheme” during a ceremony at Punjab University on Wednesday. This initiative aims to support talented students financially and encourage them to pursue higher education. Speaking at the event, CM Maryam also announced the next phase of the laptop scheme, set to launch in January 2025, along with a new interest-free loan program for students.
| Program | Details |
| Scholarship Applications | 70,000 received, 30,000 awarded |
| Loan Scheme | Interest-free, for student startups |
| Laptop Scheme Launch | January 2025 |
Also Read: CM ‘Maryam Ki Dastak’ Program Now Expands to 40 Districts Across Punjab in 2025
Table of Content
Honhaar Scholarship Scheme
The ceremony began with a recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by the national anthem and a poem by Allama Iqbal performed by GC University’s musical society. CM Maryam distributed scholarship cheques to students and revealed that 70,000 applications had been received, out of which 30,000 scholarships would be awarded. Among these, 18,000 scholarships are for male students and 12,000 for female students.
This merit-based program focuses on assisting underprivileged students, ensuring that scholarships are distributed without political bias. Maryam Nawaz highlighted the government’s commitment to education, stating that “investing in the next generation is the responsibility of true politicians.”
Also Read: Latest Update: Rs. 100 Billion Funds Announced for Honhaar Scholarship Program
Interest-Free Loan Scheme for Students
To further ease the financial burden on students, CM Maryam announced a new interest-free loan program. Students will be able to access loans worth millions of rupees to start their businesses. These loans will be repayable in easy installments, enabling students to focus on their education and future endeavors without financial stress.
Next Phase of the Laptop Scheme
- The next phase of the laptop scheme will begin in January 2025.
- Laptops will be distributed purely on merit, ensuring fairness.
- The scheme aims to turn the dreams of deserving students into reality.
- It aligns with the government’s vision to empower students with modern education tools.
Empowering Students
CM Maryam Nawaz emphasized that students are the true identity of Pakistan. She stated that students belong in classrooms and universities, not on the streets protesting with sticks and stones. She criticized previous governments for failing to utilize public funds effectively, resulting in a lack of educational opportunities for millions of children.
She praised the merit-based appointments in Punjab’s districts and assured the audience of the government’s dedication to securing a brighter future for students.
Scholarship Inclusion for Private Universities
Dr. Farukh Naveed, Secretary of Higher Education, provided additional details about the Honhaar Scholarship Scheme. For the first time, students from 15 private universities in Pakistan will be eligible for scholarships. Additionally, matric and intermediate position holders will be included, extending the program’s reach to a larger group of deserving students.
Also Read: CM Punjab announces increase in amount of Honhaar scholarship
Conclusion
The Honhaar Scholarship Scheme and the upcoming laptop and loan programs reflect the government’s commitment to empowering students through education. By providing financial assistance, technology, and opportunities for self-employment, these initiatives aim to build a better future for the youth of Pakistan. Students are encouraged to apply and take full advantage of these programs to achieve their academic and career goals.