Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has unveiled a series of initiatives to transform the province’s educational landscape. A significant highlight is the ‘Ho-Nihar’ merit scholarship program, which aims to boost the number of scholarships from 4,000 to 25,000. This program will provide 100% fee scholarship for Bachelor of Science (BS) students in government colleges and eight private universities, making higher education more accessible to deserving students.
Maryam Nawaz also approved the immediate establishment of new universities in Jhelum, Vehari, and Bahawalnagar. Alongside these developments, she directed the swift rollout of the laptop scheme, designed to equip students with the necessary tools for digital learning.
The Chief Minister stressed the need to introduce new disciplines in colleges with lower enrollment. Additionally, he emphasized aligning courses with job market demands to ensure graduates are job-ready. Furthermore, to improve administrative efficiency, we will set up an online portal system for appointing divisional directors and principals.
Additionally, the government plans to provide new buses for government colleges, enhancing transportation for students. The meeting also reviewed recommendations for establishing universities through public-private partnerships, with an agreement to support private sector involvement in setting up these institutions. A high-level ministerial committee will oversee private universities to ensure quality and accountability.
The government will establish the Punjab Board Coordination Commission to reform educational governance. Maryam Nawaz expressed satisfaction with the successful implementation of free MDCAT and E-CAT classes in 90 colleges. She emphasized expanding these preparatory classes to students in remote areas.
“Private sector facilities should be utilized for the promotion of higher education,” said Maryam Nawaz. She believes that with private sector participation, youth from remote areas will have greater access to higher education opportunities.
Also Read: Punjab Declares Saturday as Weekly Holiday in Govt Schools
These initiatives demonstrate the Chief Minister’s commitment to enhancing educational standards, accessibility, and infrastructure in Punjab. They pave the way for a more educated and empowered youth.