Punjab's development drive continues with special focus on education, public welfare: Rana Sikandar

Lahore (Web Desk): Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat has said the province's development journey is moving ahead at a rapid pace, with the government taking concrete steps to improve public welfare across all sectors, particularly education.

Addressing a press conference in Lahore, the minister said Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is working tirelessly for the province's development and the well-being of its people, adding that education remains one of the government's highest priorities.

Rana Sikandar said several initiatives are underway to support students, including scholarship schemes and the laptop distribution programme.

He revealed that the Honhaar Scholarship Programme has received 21,000 applications from students in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, while the Punjab government is also considering increasing the scholarship quota for students from Sindh.

Highlighting reforms in the education sector, the minister claimed that schools across Punjab have witnessed a record increase in student enrolment.

He added that the outsourcing of public schools has contributed to improving the quality of education and overall academic standards.

He said the provincial government is also implementing the Suthra Punjab programme to improve cleanliness in streets, neighbourhoods, cities, and rural areas.

In addition, various welfare initiatives have been launched for farmers and labourers to improve their livelihoods.

Criticising political opponents, Rana Sikandar urged those questioning Punjab's performance to focus on governance in their own provinces.

He maintained that several development initiatives introduced by the Punjab government have been adopted by other provinces.

The minister added that if the Pakistan Peoples Party wishes to debate development, the discussion should centre on public welfare projects and development initiatives rather than political criticism.