Punjab CM Announces Laptops for Top Students and New Buses for Kinnaird College
The Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, used the 89th convocation of Kinnaird College for Women to unveil a programme that will provide laptops to students who top their classes and to introduce five new buses for the institution. In her address she praised the graduates, their families and the faculty, describing each young woman on stage as “a complete story of success”.
Maryam Nawaz emphasized her government’s commitment to universal education, saying that every child should be able to learn regardless of family income. She called on women to chase their goals even when society places extra scrutiny on them, noting, “When a boy works hard, people say he wants to get ahead. When a girl works hard, they say she is only concerned about herself.” She urged women to stay determined, work hard, and not let domestic responsibilities deter them from professional ambitions.
The chief minister highlighted safety measures on public transport, including CCTV cameras and panic buttons on electric buses, designed to enable quick responses to harassment. She encouraged female students to report any incidents and asked parents to listen to their daughters’ concerns.
Speaking about gender parity in government schemes, Maryam Nawaz contrasted an earlier distribution that gave 70 percent of opportunities to boys and 30 percent to girls with the current policy of equal access for both sexes. She noted that when she assumed office, 22 universities in Punjab were without vice‑chancellors; all positions have since been filled on merit after she personally conducted interviews to avoid undue influence.
The chief minister advised students not to view themselves as inferior and to use education as a tool for improving their futures. She reminded them that challenges are a natural part of life and must be met with courage and perseverance. Referring to her own experience, she recalled being told that governing Punjab would be difficult because of the province’s size and bureaucratic complexities, yet she asserted that hard work can enable women to rise to roles such as chief minister, minister, commissioner or deputy commissioner.
Maryam Nawaz affirmed that the provincial government will keep providing resources to help students achieve financial independence and announced plans to make electric bikes more accessible through easy instalment schemes. She concluded by expressing pride in the achievements of Punjab’s daughters, urging parents to support their children’s ambitions without fear, and led the graduates in applauding the parents who have stood by them throughout their educational journeys.