On July 20, 2024, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz made an important announcement, allocating 25 billion rupees for the student scholarship program. The announcement was part of a wider initiative to support students and youth in Punjab. This coincided with the launch of the first phase of Punjab’s e-bike programme, during which electric bikes were distributed to eligible students. Maryam Nawaz shed light on several future projects aimed at increasing opportunities for the youth.
In her speech, Maryam Nawaz emphasized the government’s commitment to support students and youth. The Rs 25 billion scholarship initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure that no child misses out on education due to financial hardship. Besides this, the government is planning to launch a new laptop scheme for students.
Phase 2 of Punjab E-Bikes
Maryam Nawaz also announced the upcoming phase II of the Punjab e-bike program. This phase will allow new applicants to register through the online web portal. The government will install solar power charging stations in colleges and institutions for the convenience of students. Additionally, children without parental care will receive bicycles, and the company Nova Mobilizer was granted the first license to manufacture e-loader rickshaws.
The Punjab government has received more than 100,000 applications for the E-bike program. In the first phase, 27,200 applicants will receive electric bicycles. Maryam Nawaz assured the youth that this project will be expanded and more beneficiaries will be included in the next stages. The government will cover the first Rs 20,000 of the down payment of Rs 40,000 per electric motorcycle.
Promise to start registration for laptop scheme
Maryam Nawaz has announced the launch of a laptop scheme for students and a Rs 25 billion scholarship program to ensure that no child is deprived of education due to financial instability. The program will also support children who have lost their parents by removing the guarantee condition. Additionally, the government will set up solar electric motorcycle charging stations in Punjab, providing battery insurance against theft or fire.
She emphasized that the distribution of bicycles was done through electronic voting, without any suggestions affecting the process. It ensures fair and transparent distribution of resources to deserving students.
Additional support for students
The scholarship and e-bike initiatives are designed to provide equal opportunities to students across Punjab. By removing financial barriers to education and transportation, the government aims to empower students to contribute effectively to the economy, leading to national development.
Maryam Nawaz also shed light on the importance of providing resources and facilities to women and also shed light on ending long-term deprivation. The e-bike program, in particular, aims to increase mobility and independence for female students, allowing them to more effectively pursue their educational and professional goals.
Support for orphaned children
Maryam Nawaz emphasized that the e-bike program will also help children who are not cared for by their parents. These children often face significant challenges in accessing education and other opportunities. By providing them with e-bikes and other resources, the government aims to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students.
The government granted the first license to manufacture e-loader rickshaws to Nova Mobilizer. The initiative aims to promote local manufacturing and create new economic opportunities in Punjab. The e-loader rickshaws will provide an efficient and environmentally friendly transportation solution, which will further contribute to the sustainable development of the region.
Conclusion
The launch of the Punjab e-bike program by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is a major step towards empowering students, especially female students, with modern transportation and educational support. A whopping Rs 25 billion has been earmarked for scholarships and plans to provide laptops, the initiative aims to ensure that financial problems do not hinder the educational path of students.
By providing equal opportunities and resources to students across Punjab, the government is laying the foundation for a more inclusive and prosperous future. The combination of scholarships, e-bikes, and sustainable energy solutions represents a comprehensive approach to address the diverse needs of students and promote national development.