Maryam Nawaz Criticizes Violence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Highlights Punjab’s Focus on Education and Youth Development

ISLAMABAD: Maryam Nawaz, Chief Minister of Punjab, addressed students at a ceremony at Gujrat University, emphasizing Punjab’s commitment to youth development while criticizing conditions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Speaking to the audience, she pledged that all of Punjab’s resources would be dedicated to supporting students’ dreams. “Scholarships, laptops, and other educational opportunities are being provided 100 percent on merit. I am answerable to Allah; no one can claim that a scholarship was given on recommendation. Every meritorious child receives their due,” she said.

Maryam Nawaz stressed the importance of Generation Z in shaping Pakistan’s future, calling 2026 “the year of youth.” She added that her government’s aim is to provide students with all necessary facilities so that they can feel connected to their homeland.

Criticizing neighboring Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, she said, “Across Attock, children there are given weapons and taught abusive language. Their minds are being filled with love for violence. They are told to close streets and shops.” In contrast, she highlighted that Punjab’s children have access to scholarships, laptops, and vocational training, as well as free transport services such as Green Buses to attend educational institutions.

She further remarked, “I am Punjabi, but above all, I am Pakistani. Many in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are still living in the Stone Age and do not understand what progress means. To compete with the world, our youth must be equipped with laptops and scholarships.”

Maryam Nawaz also criticized the provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, claiming that their actions to “shut down livelihoods with sticks” do not affect Punjab or deny healthcare to patients in Sindh.

Her address underscored Punjab’s focus on merit-based education, youth empowerment, and the contrast she sees with neighboring regions in terms of development and opportunities.