Web Desk: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has formally launched the second phase of a free laptop scheme aimed at expanding digital access for students across the province, officials said on Monday.
The programme allows eligible students to apply online for high-performance laptops, marking a renewed push by the provincial government to support education through technology.
According to the Punjab Higher Education Department, the initiative targets students enrolled in all public-sector universities across the province. In addition, students from a limited number of selected private universities have also been declared eligible.
Officials said the scheme is designed to help young people align their academic skills with modern digital demands, while strengthening research, online learning and technical capacity.
Authorities stressed that the laptop distribution process will follow strict merit-based criteria to ensure transparency and equal access. The goal, they said, is to ensure that deserving and high-performing students benefit from the programme without political or administrative interference.
Interest in the scheme surged immediately after its launch. Officials reported receiving more than 4,000 online applications on the first day alone, reflecting strong demand among students.
Education experts said the response highlights growing awareness among young people about the importance of digital tools in higher education and skills development.
Under the programme, students will receive laptops equipped with 13th-generation Intel Core i7 processors, solid-state drives for faster performance and high-speed RAM to support multitasking and advanced academic work.
Officials said the specifications were selected to ensure students can effectively engage in research, virtual learning platforms and technical coursework.
After verifying applications, authorities will distribute laptops in phases to eligible students. The Higher Education Department said the deadline for submitting applications has been set for Feb. 15, 2026.
The provincial government has positioned the scheme as a long-term investment in youth development and digital education infrastructure.
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