Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has launched the second phase of the laptop and scholarship schemes to support young people, Punjab Information and Culture Minister Azma Bokhari said on Sunday.

Bokhari said the initiatives would help students access educational opportunities and prepare for a technology-driven future. She stressed that technology, artificial intelligence (AI) and modern skills were essential for Pakistan’s youth.

According to the provincial minister, young people needed practical opportunities to develop their abilities. She contrasted these priorities with political protests, long marches and sit-ins.

Azma Bokhari Highlights Youth-Focused Initiatives

Bokhari said Maryam Nawaz was addressing the educational and social needs of Punjab’s young people with care and commitment.

She added that the chief minister’s approach had contributed to her growing popularity among young people. The minister also said Maryam Nawaz’s focus on practical performance was earning her international recognition.

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Furthermore, Bokhari accused the chief minister’s political opponents of resorting to personal attacks because of her popularity and performance. She also criticised what she described as contradictions between their public messages about morality and their political conduct.

Minister Criticises PTI Over Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Situation

Commenting on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Bokhari said the era of hollow slogans and promises of change had ended.

She blamed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) for what she described as an emergency-like situation in the province. Moreover, she alleged that the party had failed to prioritise national interests and provincial peace amid security challenges.

The minister also highlighted the sacrifices made by the Pakistan Army and other security institutions in the fight against terrorism.

She said security personnel were working around the clock to eliminate terrorism and protect the country. Therefore, she argued, irresponsible statements against security institutions could undermine the morale of personnel engaged in security operations.

Nation Stands with Security Personnel, Says Bokhari

Bokhari said the Pakistani nation stood alongside its security personnel. She also expressed respect for their sacrifices to maintain peace and stability across the country.

The minister reiterated that youth development, access to education and modern technical skills remained important priorities for Pakistan’s future.

Her remarks focused on the Punjab government’s education initiatives, political criticism of PTI and the role of security institutions in addressing terrorism.