ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif officially launched the fourth phase of the Youth Laptop Scheme 2025 on Thursday, during a ceremony held at the Jinnah Convention Centre in Islamabad.
The program aims to distribute 100,000 laptops to high-achieving students nationwide, underscoring the government’s dedication to youth empowerment and fostering digital literacy. In his address, the prime minister recalled that the scheme was initially introduced in 2011 and has since been instrumental in narrowing the digital gap, enabling students to compete in a technology-centric environment. He mentioned that approximately Rs50 billion has been allocated to the initiative so far, demonstrating a strong commitment to advancing education and innovation.
Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that the scheme transcends mere device distribution; it is about opening global opportunities for Pakistan’s youth, equipping them with modern skills, and contributing to the country’s economic development. He expressed his government’s readiness to allocate even more funds—up to Rs500 billion if necessary to ensure every deserving student gains access to digital tools.
The prime minister pointed out that technology access is now essential in modern education, and these laptops will facilitate remote learning, research, and skill enhancement. He stressed that building a digitally skilled workforce is crucial for Pakistan to meet future challenges. He called upon educational institutions to actively promote digital literacy and innovation, viewing the scheme as part of a larger strategy to boost productivity and technological progress across various sectors.
The Youth Laptop Scheme, which was first launched under the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme in 2011, has awarded thousands of laptops based on merit. The latest phase continues this legacy, aligning with the 2025 vision to equip young Pakistanis with the tools needed to excel in the global digital economy.
