HARIPUR: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif officially launched the Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme 2025 during a ceremony at the University of Haripur on Wednesday, emphasizing that the initiative aims to do more than distribute laptops, it seeks to build an environment where young people can realize their full potential and excel.
The event, attended by government officials, youth leaders, and beneficiaries, showcased a documentary highlighting the program’s success since its start in 2013 and outlined the ambitious vision for 2025, focusing on youth empowerment through education and technology. Over one million students nationwide have already benefited from the scheme, and the Prime Minister expressed his commitment to expanding this impact.
Addressing the gathering, Shehbaz Sharif reiterated his long-standing goal of empowering Pakistan’s youth by providing equal opportunities based on merit. He underscored the importance of integrating modern skills in sectors like IT, agriculture, and mining to foster national growth and competitiveness. “The future of Pakistan rests in the hands of our talented youth, who are capable of achieving global recognition,” he stated. Reflecting on his own journey of youth empowerment, he highlighted efforts dating back to 1997 and stressed that development must be inclusive of all regions, emphasizing that progress depends on holistic growth.
The Prime Minister paid tribute to the resilience of KP and Hazara’s people, acknowledging their sacrifices in combating terrorism and maintaining security. He commended law enforcement and military personnel for their dedication and sacrifices, calling their efforts vital to the nation’s stability.
He also praised students’ parents and teachers for their crucial role in shaping Pakistan’s future. Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the importance of skill development in boosting the economy and announced plans to send provincial delegations to China for training in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
Responding to local needs, he announced the establishment of a Daanish School in Haripur, modeled after successful institutions in Punjab, and committed to creating a women’s campus at Haripur University to promote gender inclusion. He also pledged the construction of the Haripur Bridge to improve connectivity and access to educational institutions.
Concluding his speech, the Prime Minister urged the youth to draw inspiration from Allama Iqbal’s vision of a resilient Pakistan and to face future challenges with unity and determination. “The future belongs to our youth, and they will lead Pakistan to new heights,” he affirmed.
Many students shared inspiring stories about how the Laptop Scheme transformed their lives. Ghalib Hassan, son of a martyr from Peshawar, described his laptop as a gateway to opportunities and success. Maham Batool from Karak expressed her gratitude for the scheme’s role in her career growth, now serving in a Grade 17 position at Askari Bank. Wareesha Eman from Lakki Marwat praised the program for helping her pursue higher education, while Aimal Abbass, son of a Pakistan Army martyr, voiced heartfelt thanks for the support.
The event featured a ceremonial guard of honor by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police and a musical performance by the Police Band, to the applause of the audience.
Earlier, Haripur’s newly elected MNA, Babar Nawaz, shared the community’s hopes for the region’s development, particularly emphasizing the need for a women’s campus at Haripur University to overcome cultural barriers to female education. Minister for Kashmir Affairs, Amir Muqam, lauded Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s dedication to KP and Hazara, acknowledging his frequent visits and ongoing efforts to uplift the region.
This launch marks a significant step forward in Pakistan’s youth development agenda, reinforcing the government’s commitment to harnessing the potential of its younger generation for national progress.
