Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has taken significant steps to enhance educational opportunities across the province, approving a substantial expansion of the Punjab Merit Scholarship Program. The program will now provide scholarships to 25,000 students pursuing Bachelor of Science degrees in both public and selected private universities, covering their full tuition fees. This expansion aims to support more students in accessing higher education without financial barriers.
In addition to expanding scholarships, Chief Minister Nawaz has sanctioned the establishment of new universities in Jhelum, Vehari, and Bahawalnagar, underscoring her commitment to bolstering educational infrastructure in underserved regions. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to promote higher education and align educational offerings with the needs of the job market.
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During a recent meeting chaired by Maryam Nawaz, several other educational reforms were announced. The immediate implementation of the laptop scheme was directed, aimed at providing students with necessary digital tools for their studies. Plans were also discussed to introduce new disciplines in colleges and implement an online portal system for the merit-based appointment of divisional directors and principals, ensuring transparency in educational leadership appointments.
The meeting also addressed the provision of new buses for government colleges and explored avenues for establishing universities through public-private partnerships. A ministerial committee was established to oversee the affairs of private universities, aiming to facilitate their establishment and ensure quality education standards. Furthermore, the establishment of the Punjab Board Coordination Commission was decided to drive reforms across educational boards in the province, aimed at improving governance and educational outcomes.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed satisfaction with the ongoing initiatives, including the successful implementation of free preparatory classes for MD-CAT and ECAT exams across Punjab. She emphasized plans to extend these classes to remote areas, ensuring that all students have equal access to quality education opportunities.
The Chief Minister praised the efforts of Provincial Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat and the Higher Education Department in advancing these reforms. The meeting was attended by senior officials and ministers, highlighting the government’s commitment to transforming Punjab’s educational landscape for the betterment of its youth and future generations.
