CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz Unveils Honhaar Scholarship for Students Nationwide
In a major step toward inclusive and merit-based education, Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has expanded the Honhaar Scholarship Program to welcome students from all corners of Pakistan, including Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The announcement was made during a key session focused on higher education reforms, where several student-centric policies were approved.
Honhaar Scholarship Goes National
What was once a Punjab-only opportunity has now evolved into a nationwide scholarship program, open to students enrolled in their second to fourth semesters in recognized institutions. The selection criteria will remain merit-based, ensuring transparency and equal opportunity.
“No child should be denied education for lack of resources,” said Maryam Nawaz. “If a student earns their place, we will stand behind them—regardless of where they come from.”
The Government of Punjab has pledged to cover the complete tuition fees for eligible students from outside the province, leveling the educational playing field across Pakistan.
Laptop Distribution Scheme Expanded
The Chief Minister also revealed a substantial boost to the Punjab Laptop Scheme, increasing the number of laptops to be distributed to 110,000 units. Students who achieve a minimum of 65% marks will be eligible to receive a device, promoting digital literacy and learning accessibility.
To streamline support, a dedicated student helpline will soon be launched to guide applicants through both the scholarship and laptop programs.
“These aren’t handouts—they’re tools for progress. Laptops and scholarships are the rightful inheritance of every hardworking student,” she stated during the meeting.
Education as a Cornerstone of Progress
Maryam Nawaz emphasized that youth empowerment and education are the bedrock of sustainable development. She reaffirmed that no budgetary constraints wi`ll be allowed to disrupt student support programs.
“I see every student as my own child. My goal is to transform their future, not just their present,” she remarked with conviction.
In a move to encourage collaboration and innovation in academia, it was also agreed to host a Vice Chancellors’ Summit and a Tech Expo in Punjab in the near future.
Highlights at a Glance
- ✅ Honhaar Scholarship now open to students across all provinces
- 💸 Full tuition fee coverage for eligible out-of-province students
- 📚 Eligibility remains merit-based (2nd–4th semester students)
- 💻 Laptop Scheme scaled up: 110,000 laptops for Punjab students
- 📊 Minimum 65% score required to qualify for a laptop
- ☎️ Student helpline to be launched for support and guidance
- 🎓 Approval of Vice Chancellors Conference and Tech Expo to promote academic innovation
Conclusion
By opening the doors of opportunity to youth across Pakistan, CM Maryam Nawaz is redefining provincial leadership through inclusion, merit, and vision—offering every deserving student the chance to rise, regardless of where they belong.