Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has launched a nationwide scheme to provide 500,000 Chromebooks and internet facilities to talented students over the next two years. The initiative will cover students enrolled in schools and religious seminaries across Pakistan.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Shehbaz said the programme would equip young people with modern technology and digital skills. He stressed that financial circumstances should not prevent talented students from reaching their full potential. Under the scheme, authorities will distribute Chromebooks on merit, with each selected student receiving a school bag and an internet device.
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The prime minister said the devices would help students access online learning resources and electronic libraries from home. He recalled that 600,000 laptops had been distributed among students on merit over the past decade. That programme began during former prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s tenure.
Shehbaz appreciated the Tokyo Technology Care Foundation for supporting the Chromebook initiative. He also acknowledged overseas Pakistanis who contributed to education and digital development. He described young Pakistanis living abroad as an important national asset and future contributors to the country’s progress.
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Highlighting other education initiatives, Shehbaz said Danish Schools provide free education, accommodation and meals. These institutions also offer facilities such as smart boards and electronic libraries. He added that 27 Danish Schools were under construction nationwide and noted that religious seminary students had also benefited from earlier laptop schemes.
The prime minister expressed hope that the Chromebooks would help students pursue higher education, improve digital skills and access better employment opportunities. Referring to the COVID-19 pandemic, he said laptops had helped students continue their studies and enabled people to work during difficult circumstances. He urged students to value education and use these opportunities to build a better future.