Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has unveiled a broad spectrum of youth-focused initiatives, declaring 2026 as the “Year of Youth” and announcing plans for the distribution of 100,000 electric bikes for students across Punjab. Speaking at a Honhar Scholarship and Laptop Scheme event held in Lodhran, the chief minister emphasized the provincial government’s dedication to empowering young people through education, technological advancement, and skill development programs. She stressed that these initiatives would not be confined to major urban centers, but would extend to districts such as Rawalpindi, Lahore, Multan, Layyah, Bhakkar, and Sahiwal, ensuring equitable access to developmental opportunities across the province.
Maryam Nawaz elaborated on the government’s plans to establish IT cities in multiple districts and launch an artificial intelligence center in Lahore. These centers aim to nurture innovation, provide exposure to emerging technologies, and equip youth with skills in areas such as AI, software development, and digital entrepreneurship. In addition, she announced that the government will initiate an annual distribution of 100,000 laptops and an equal number of scholarships starting next year, creating enhanced academic and digital opportunities for students. The introduction of the Parwaz Card was another key announcement. This program is designed to support skilled youth in career development, professional training, and entrepreneurship, giving them access to resources, mentorship, and tools that improve employability in a competitive economy.
During her address, the chief minister emphasized the importance of equitable development and inclusivity in government programs. By holding the ceremony in Lodhran, she highlighted the provincial government’s focus on districts that have historically received less attention in terms of development initiatives. She acknowledged that previous scholarship and laptop programs could have benefited a larger number of students and pledged that the expanded initiatives would significantly increase the reach and impact of these programs. This focus on technology, digital infrastructure, and education reflects a comprehensive strategy to prepare the next generation of Punjab’s workforce for a knowledge-driven, technologically advanced economy.
Maryam Nawaz also provided updates on housing and social welfare initiatives under the provincial government’s development agenda. She noted that construction is ongoing for 125,000 homes under the Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar scheme, with 50,000 homes already completed and over 70,000 still under construction. In addition, the government will allocate three marla plots to landless citizens through the Apni Zameen, Apna Ghar scheme, supporting low-income families and addressing housing shortages. Through these combined efforts in youth empowerment, education, digital access, and housing, the provincial government is implementing a multi-dimensional approach to development that targets both immediate needs and long-term capacity building. By linking social welfare, technology, and skill development, Punjab is positioning its youth to actively participate in the province’s growing digital economy while fostering inclusive growth across multiple sectors.
These initiatives collectively underscore Punjab’s commitment to equipping young citizens with the tools and opportunities needed for success in a rapidly evolving global landscape, while simultaneously promoting equitable development and addressing basic socio-economic challenges across the province.
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