Punjab CM revives laptop scheme, unveils educational reforms

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has reinstated the long-awaited laptop scheme for students, marking its revival after seven years. This decision came to light during a recent meeting focused on reforms in the higher education sector.

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During the meeting, CM Maryam received a comprehensive briefing on various issues pertaining to higher education and underscored the importance of addressing these challenges promptly. Among the key initiatives discussed were the establishment of new universities and colleges, particularly in underserved districts of the province.

Expressing her government’s commitment to elevating educational standards, CM Maryam highlighted the goal of establishing international standard universities in every district, alongside colleges at the tehsil level. She also lauded Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s declaration of an “Educational Emergency” nationwide, stressing the imperative need for comprehensive reforms across all levels of education.

Emphasising the pivotal role of technology in modern education, CM Maryam announced plans to invest in the development of the knowledge economy and IT education.

To enhance student accessibility and mobility, CM Maryam revealed plans to distribute 20,000 motorbikes to students across Punjab as well.

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During the meeting, it was highlighted that with over 650,000 students enrolled in both public and private universities in Punjab, the higher education budget had consistently remained a priority during previous administrations.

Senior officials including Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat, Information Minister Uzma Zahid Bukhari, attended the meeting, along with Chief Secretary and Secretary Higher Education. – INP