Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced 460 scholarships for students from Balochistan under the 2025–26 education support program. The initiative aims to promote equal access to higher education for students from underdeveloped regions who often face limited academic opportunities compared to other provinces. The scholarships will be awarded through the Balochistan Education Endowment Fund (BEEF), focusing mainly on low-income and deserving students.
The move is part of a broader effort by the Punjab government to extend educational support beyond provincial boundaries and contribute to national-level youth empowerment. Officials said the program is designed to ensure fair access to higher education so that talented students from Balochistan can pursue their academic goals without financial barriers. This step is also seen as an effort to reduce educational inequality across provinces.
According to details, the scholarships will cover students in various academic fields, allowing them to study in recognized institutions with financial assistance. The program is expected to open new doors for hundreds of students who otherwise struggle to continue higher studies due to economic challenges. Authorities believe that investing in education is key to long-term social and economic development in the region.
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti welcomed the initiative and expressed gratitude to the Punjab leadership for the support. He stated that the step reflects strong inter-provincial cooperation and highlights the importance of collective efforts for national progress. He also emphasized that education is a fundamental right of every citizen and must be made accessible to all.
He further added that reforms in Balochistan’s education sector will continue, including upgrading schools, improving infrastructure, and addressing gaps in remote areas. These reforms aim to ensure that students in far-flung regions receive equal learning opportunities and quality education facilities.
Officials believe that such initiatives will significantly expand educational access and help build a more skilled and educated youth population. Over time, programs like this are expected to strengthen national unity and contribute to long-term development across Pakistan by empowering students from underserved regions.
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