Students Belong in Universities, Not at D-Chowk: CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz

Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif stated that students look best in universities, not at D-Chowk, and emphasized that she does not want to see students holding stones or sticks in their hands. Speaking at the inauguration of the scholarship scheme, she said that the education of talented students was her responsibility and that true politicians are those who invest in the future of the younger generation.
Maryam Nawaz added that guns, slingshots, stones, and sticks are not the identity of Pakistan. Instead, it is the students who represent the true face of the nation. She further pointed out that the image of Pakistan presented to the visiting President of Belarus during the protests must have been unfavorable, suggesting that the Belarusian president should have been shown the country’s educational institutions instead.
The Chief Minister also questioned why the funds that were available to previous governments never reached the people, leading to millions of children remaining uneducated. She assured the public that under her leadership, the government is working towards a brighter future for the youth.
Maryam Nawaz also announced that a new program would be launched to provide interest-free loans to students, up to a million rupees, to help them start their own businesses and ease the financial burden on their families. She stressed that these loans would be available with easy repayment plans, enabling students to work with peace of mind.
The Chief Minister revealed that 70,000 applications had been received for the scholarships, with 30,000 scholarships being awarded—18,000 to male students and 12,000 to female students. She also announced that the laptop scheme would be reinstated in January, ensuring that all deserving students, regardless of political affiliation, would receive scholarships without discrimination.
“Whether it’s a laptop or any other necessary support, we will take full responsibility for the students,” she said, highlighting that the merit-based scholarship program would help turn the dreams of many students with limited resources into reality.
Furthermore, Maryam Nawaz mentioned that all appointments in Punjab’s districts have been made strictly on merit, emphasizing transparency and fairness in the recruitment process.
Earlier, Maryam Nawaz formally launched the “Honhaar Scholarship Scheme” by distributing cheques to students. The event commenced with the recitation of the Quran at Punjab University, followed by a musical performance by the GC University Music Society, and a rendition of the national anthem. The award-winning students were honored with a Guard of Honor by the police.
Secretary of Higher Education Dr. Farakh Naveed provided detailed information about the scholarship scheme, announcing that, for the first time, students from 15 private universities in Pakistan will also be eligible to receive scholarships. Students who have secured top positions in matriculation and intermediate exams will also be able to apply for scholarships.