Haripur, December 17, 2025: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday inaugurated the Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme 2025 distribution in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, saying the initiative was not merely about providing laptops but about creating an ecosystem that enables young people to unlock their potential and achieve excellence.
The launch ceremony was held at the University of Haripur and attended by government officials, youth leaders and beneficiaries of the scheme. A documentary highlighting the success of the Laptop Scheme since its inception in 2013 was screened, showcasing its impact on over one million students nationwide and outlining the government’s 2025 vision for youth empowerment through education and technology.
Addressing the gathering, the prime minister reiterated his long-standing commitment to empowering Pakistan’s youth on the basis of merit.
“The future of this nation lies in the hands of our students, who are not only brilliant but capable of competing at the global level,” he said.
Shehbaz Sharif stressed that national development depended on progress across all federating units. “Pakistan’s development does not rely on any single province; it depends on holistic development,” he said, referring to various initiatives, including overseas training programmes for students in agriculture and technology.
Paying tribute to the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Hazara Division, the prime minister lauded their resilience in the face of terrorism and security challenges. He also honoured the sacrifices of police, law enforcement agencies and the armed forces.
“Your sacrifices, which the nation may sometimes forget, will be remembered in golden words,” he said.
The prime minister highlighted economic challenges and the need for modern skills, particularly in information technology, agriculture and mining. He said the economy had been steered away from default and the next phase required growth led by skilled youth. He also announced plans to send delegations from all provinces to China for training in artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies.
Responding to local demands, Shehbaz Sharif announced the establishment of a Daanish School in Haripur, with separate campuses for boys and girls, and approved the creation of a women’s campus at the University of Haripur. He also pledged the construction of the Haripur Bridge to improve connectivity between educational institutions and surrounding areas.
“I respect the culture of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and I assure you that the women’s campus will honour the aspirations of female students,” he said.
Concluding his address, the prime minister urged the youth to draw inspiration from Allama Iqbal’s vision and move forward with unity and determination.
“The future of Pakistan is in the hands of our youth, and they will take this country to new heights,” he said.
Several students shared how the Laptop Scheme had transformed their lives. Ghalib Hassan, son of a martyr from Peshawar, said the laptop enabled him to enter the digital world and secure freelance work. Maham Batool from Karak said the scheme helped her achieve her career goals and secure a Grade-17 position at Askari Bank. Wareesha Eman from Lakki Marwat and Aimal Abbass, son of an army martyr, also expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided through the scheme.
Earlier, newly elected MNA from Haripur Babar Nawaz highlighted local education challenges, particularly for girls, and formally requested a women’s campus at Haripur University. Minister for Kashmir Affairs Amir Muqam praised the prime minister’s continued focus on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Hazara, saying the region’s people appreciated his consistent engagement and development initiatives.
The event concluded with a guard of honour by a Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police contingent and a performance by the police band, drawing applause from attendees.
