In a monumental move to support higher education, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has launched the Honhaar Scholarship Program, a Rs. 130 billion initiative aimed at providing financial assistance to deserving students. This groundbreaking program highlights the provincial government’s commitment to fostering educational excellence and creating opportunities for underprivileged yet talented youth.
The Punjab Higher Education Department (HED) disclosed that over 68,000 students from 65 universities, 359 colleges, and 12 medical colleges have already applied for the scholarship. The program will annually benefit 30,000 students, offering full tuition coverage for four-to-five-year undergraduate degree programs in 68 disciplines, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder academic progress.
Eligibility Criteria for the Honhaar Scholarship Program
To qualify, students must fulfill the following requirements:
- Domicile: Must belong to any district of Punjab.
- Age Limit: Not exceeding 22 years by the application deadline.
- Enrollment: Must be enrolled in eligible disciplines at selected universities or colleges for the Fall 2024 session. This includes newly admitted MBBS and BDS students for 2024.
- Family Income: Monthly family income must be below Rs. 300,000, supported by an affidavit.
Minimum Academic Requirements
- Medical Colleges: 80% or above.
- Top Universities: 80% or above.
- Public Sector Universities:
- Science: 75% or above.
- Arts & Social Sciences: 70% or above.
- HED Colleges:
- Science: 65% or above.
- Arts & Social Sciences: 60% or above.
This ambitious initiative reflects Maryam Nawaz’s vision of enhancing education access, particularly for those from economically challenged backgrounds.
Other Initiatives: “Maryam Ki Dastak”
In tandem with the Honhaar Scholarship Program, the Punjab government has also expanded the “Maryam Ki Dastak” initiative to 32 districts, aimed at improving public service delivery. This expansion includes districts like Rahim Yar Khan, Vehari, Lodhran, and Gujrat, among others, furthering Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s mission to enhance governance and accessibility for citizens.
The Honhaar Scholarship Program is not just an investment in education but a testament to Punjab’s dedication to empowering its youth and creating a brighter future.
