PM Shehbaz launches laptop scheme 2025 in KP, calls youth engine of national progress

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday inaugurated the Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme 2025 distribution in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, describing the initiative as more than just the provision of laptops, but an effort to create an ecosystem that enables young people to unlock their potential and achieve excellence.

The launch ceremony was held at the University of Haripur and attended by government officials, youth leaders and students who have benefited from the scheme, which has already reached more than one million students nationwide. Participants expressed appreciation for the program and its impact on education and digital inclusion.

A documentary highlighting the success of the Laptop Scheme since its launch in 2013 was screened at the event. The presentation outlined the government’s 2025 vision for youth empowerment and showcased steps taken under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership to promote education and technology-driven growth.

Addressing the gathering, the prime minister reiterated his long-standing commitment to empowering Pakistan’s youth, stressing that opportunities must be provided on merit to allow students to gain global recognition.

“The future of this nation lies in the hands of our students, who are not only talented but capable of competing with the world,” Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said, recalling his efforts toward youth development since 1997 and emphasizing equitable progress across all provinces.

He underlined that national development depends on the uplift of every federating unit, saying Pakistan can only move forward when all regions are given equal opportunities.

“Whether it is the Laptop Scheme, training 1,000 students in agriculture, or sending 600 students to China during my tenure as chief minister of Punjab, my belief has always been that Pakistan’s progress relies on holistic development,” he said.

Later in his address, the prime minister paid tribute to the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Hazara Division for their resilience in the face of terrorism and security challenges. He also honored the sacrifices of the police, law enforcement agencies and the armed forces.

“I feel immense pride standing among the brave people of this province who have fought terrorism for decades. Your sacrifices will always be remembered,” he said.

The prime minister also acknowledged the role of parents and teachers in shaping the country’s future, praising their dedication and sacrifices.

Touching on broader national challenges, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke about economic recovery and the urgent need for skill development. He highlighted sectors such as information technology, agriculture and mining, stressing the importance of aligning youth skills with industry needs.

“We have pulled the economy back from the brink of default, and now the focus is on growth. This will require modern skills, and our youth must lead the way,” he said, announcing plans to send delegations from all provinces to China for training in artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies.

Responding to local demands, the prime minister announced the establishment of a Daanish School in Haripur, with separate campuses for boys and girls. He also pledged the early establishment of a women’s campus at Haripur University, assuring that it would respect local culture and support female students’ aspirations. In addition, he committed to the construction of the Haripur Bridge to improve connectivity between educational institutions.

Concluding his address, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged students to draw inspiration from Allama Iqbal’s vision, calling on the youth to face challenges with unity and determination.

“The future of Pakistan rests with its youth, and they will take this country to new heights,” he said.

Several students shared how the Laptop Scheme had changed their lives. Ghalib Hassan, son of a martyr from Peshawar, said the laptop enabled him to enter the digital world, secure freelance work and earn an income. Maham Batool from Karak credited the scheme for helping her achieve her career goals and secure a Grade 17 position at Askari Bank.

Wareesha Eman from Lakki Marwat described the laptop as a source of pride for her family and village, noting that she also benefited from the PEEF scholarship to study in Punjab. Aimal Abbass, son of a Pakistan Army martyr, expressed gratitude for the scheme, saying it brought joy and hope to his family.

The ceremony featured a guard of honor by a smartly turned-out contingent of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police and a performance by the police band, drawing applause from the audience.

Earlier, newly elected MNA from Haripur Babar Nawaz highlighted the educational and development challenges faced by the constituency and reiterated the demand for a women’s campus at Haripur University due to cultural constraints. Minister for Kashmir Affairs Amir Muqam praised the prime minister’s continued focus on KP and Hazara, saying his frequent visits reflected a strong commitment to the region and its people.