Lahore: Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has instructed officials to increase the Honahar scholarships to 50,000 starting next year. She also called for the development of a scholarship scheme for second and third-year students.

According to a statement by Chief Minister of Punjab, the announcement was made during a ceremony where Ms. Sharif also unveiled plans to launch one lakh electric bikes and laptops for students next year. She emphasized the importance of merit and non-political considerations in awarding scholarships, stating that the initiative helps ease the financial burden on parents.

Ms. Sharif highlighted the provincial government’s commitment by allocating Rs 72 billion for meritorious scholarships, expressing her belief that even Rs 172 billion would not suffice given the needs. She urged students to prioritize their identity as Pakistanis and avoid actions that could conflict with national interests.

In her address, Ms. Sharif noted that other provinces have been requesting similar scholarship opportunities, and Punjab is leading by example in providing them. Emphasizing unity, she stated that no patriot should attack another province or law enforcement officials, who sacrifice for national security.

Ms. Sharif also shared her personal experiences, mentioning her time in Adiala and Kot Lakhpat jails where she focused on praying for national peace. She encouraged students at Islamia University to reject hatred and uphold the national flag. The entire month of January has been dedicated to promoting these scholarships, underscoring the government’s focus on educational advancement.