Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has unveiled a revolutionary initiative, the Honhaar Scholarship Program, dedicating Rs. 130 billion to support higher education. With over 68,000 applications already submitted, the program is set to become a game-changer for thousands of students across Punjab.

Who Can Apply?

The eligibility criteria for the scholarship include:

• Punjab Domicile: Applicants must belong to any district in the province.
• Age Restriction: Candidates must not exceed 22 years as of the closing date.
• Educational Enrollment:
  • Enrolled in designated disciplines at recognized institutions for the fall 2024 session.
  • Eligible for newly admitted MBBS and BDS students.
• Family Income: Total household income must be less than Rs. 300,000 per month.
• Academic Performance:
  • Medical Colleges: 80% or higher.
  • Top Universities: 80% or higher.
  • Public Sector Universities: Science (75%) and Arts (70%).
  • HED Colleges: Science (65%) and Arts (60%).

Scholarship Benefits

The program is set to cover 100% tuition fees for undergraduate degrees, benefiting students from 68 disciplines. As part of the vision of equitable education, the initiative will grant scholarships to 30,000 students annually, boosting their potential to achieve academic excellence.

Other Notable Initiatives

The Maryam Ki Dastak program has been extended to 32 districts, including Nankana Sahib and Layyah, under the direction of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. According to PITB Chairman Faisal Yousaf, this extension aims to improve public service delivery through trained professionals, ensuring smoother processes for citizens.

This announcement reaffirms the government’s commitment to building an inclusive and accessible educational system for all.