PM laptop scheme aimed to equip students with modern education, digital skills
GHIZER (APP): Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan and SAFRON, Engr Amir Muqam here Saturday described Ghizer, known as the “Valley of Martyrs,” as a powerful symbol of patriotism, sacrifice and bravery in Pakistan.
He said the Prime Minister’s laptop scheme is an important initiative aimed at equipping young people with modern education, research opportunities and digital skills.
The minister expressed these views while addressing a ceremony held under the Prime Minister’s laptop scheme at Karakoram International University Ghizer campus.
The federal minister said the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, is taking practical steps to provide equal opportunities in education, development and access to modern technology for the youth of Gilgit-Baltistan.
He said the laptop scheme is entirely merit-based and aims to provide talented and hardworking students across the country with modern educational facilities so they can contribute to research, innovation and digital advancement.
Referring to Ghizer as the “Valley of Martyrs,” Amir Muqam said the region has made unforgettable sacrifices for the defense of the country. He paid tribute to the martyrs and veterans, saying the patriotism, courage and sacrifices of the people of Ghizer will always be remembered.
The minister said the youth of Gilgit-Baltistan possess immense talent and have proven their abilities in education, sports, civil services, defense and other fields.
He added that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision is to equip Pakistan’s youth with modern education, science, technology and digital skills so they can make the country proud at the global level. He described the laptop scheme as a symbol of a bright and self-reliant future for Pakistan.
Highlighting ongoing development projects in Gilgit-Baltistan, Amir Muqam said the 100-megawatt solar project, safe city projects, Danish schools, business loans for youth and modern infrastructure initiatives demonstrate that the federal government considers the development of Gilgit-Baltistan an important part of national progress.
Referring to the recent regional situation, he said Pakistan demonstrated wisdom, responsibility and diplomatic maturity, earning a positive image internationally.
He praised the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, saying the national leadership and armed forces had foiled the enemy’s malicious intentions.
He also commended the successes of the Pakistan Armed Forces in Marka-e-Haq and operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, stating that Pakistan remains fully prepared to defend its sovereignty and security.
The federal minister expressed happiness over the expected visit of Prince Shah Rahim Aga Khan to Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral. He said both the federal and Gilgit-Baltistan governments would provide every possible facility for the visit. In this regard, he said he had held meetings with the Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan and officials of the Ismaili Regional Council.
Amir Muqam urged students to view the laptops not merely as devices, but as tools for knowledge, research and national service, and to use their abilities for the development of the country.
On the occasion, he also appreciated the services of Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan for empowering young people.
The federal minister also announced a cash prize of Rs100,000 for students who performed a tabla presentation on Pakistan’s national anthem.
Earlier, Amir Muqam received a warm welcome upon his arrival at the Ghizer campus. The vice chancellor and faculty members welcomed and briefed him on the campus. The minister also planted a tree in the campus lawn.
The ceremony was attended by leaders of the Pakistan Muslim League (N) in Ghizer, teachers, students and people from different walks of life.
