TLDR:
Maryam champions education, fights societal bias
Scholarships on merit, empowering Punjab’s youth
Eco-friendly initiatives transforming Punjab
Multan (The Thursday Times) — Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz declared her unwavering commitment to ensuring that no child in Punjab is deprived of quality education due to financial constraints. Addressing students at a scholarship distribution ceremony, she emphasised her vision for a progressive, educated province and urged them to stay loyal to their country, rejecting any acts of violence or disruption.
Education as the cornerstone of Punjab’s progress
Maryam Nawaz addressed students at Bahauddin Zakariya University, emphasising the importance of advanced education in fields like AI, robotics, and science. She announced that this year, 30,000 scholarships were awarded on a 100% merit basis, ensuring fairness and transparency. Congratulating students, parents, and teachers, she praised their dedication and acknowledged the sacrifices many families make to secure a quality education for their children.
Her government aims to increase scholarships next year to 50,000 and is actively exploring opportunities for international scholarships. She assured that financial challenges would not hinder any student from pursuing higher education.
Breaking financial barriers
Maryam Nawaz highlighted her administration’s commitment to removing economic hurdles that prevent children from accessing education. She announced plans to distribute laptops to students shortly, equipping them with essential tools to excel in academics. Further, an interest-free loan scheme of up to 30 million rupees will soon be introduced, enabling students to start businesses or fund their higher studies.
Her approach reflects her understanding of the struggles families face, ensuring that financial inequality does not dictate educational opportunities.
A vision for sustainability
The Chief Minister’s policies go beyond education, extending into environmental sustainability. She announced that the first phase of distributing 30,000 electric bikes to students has been completed, marking a significant step in reducing pollution and promoting eco-friendly transport. Discussions are underway with Chinese manufacturers to establish an e-bike production unit in Punjab, with plans to distribute 100,000 electric bikes next year.
Her vision combines technological progress with environmental responsibility, ensuring that Punjab’s development is both inclusive and sustainable.
Fostering unity and moral values
Maryam Nawaz urged students to remain steadfast in their loyalty to Pakistan and reject divisive influences. She warned against participating in actions that incite violence, disrupt public services, or damage public property. Addressing students as a nurturing figure, she called on them to uphold national values and contribute positively to society.
She stressed the importance of respecting women, elders, and cultural traditions, asserting that these values are integral to a society’s identity. Her remarks reflected her dual role as a leader and a guide, aiming to inspire students to work for a prosperous and united Pakistan.
Respecting political diversity
While emphasising loyalty to the nation, Maryam Nawaz highlighted the importance of political diversity within the bounds of civility. She stated that political affiliation is not inherently wrong but must be conducted with respect and decorum.
In a reflective tone, she noted the erosion of national ethics and reaffirmed her commitment to nurturing a generation that values integrity, respect, and dedication to the nation. Her leadership aims to blend education, sustainability, and unity into a cohesive vision for Punjab’s future.