Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has officially declared 2026 as the “Year of Youth”, a landmark announcement signaling renewed focus on youth development, education, entrepreneurship and digital skills across the province. This bold initiative aims to unlock opportunities for students, job seekers and innovators while aligning with modern global trends.
| Initiative | Details |
|---|---|
| Year Declared | 2026 – Year of Youth |
| Scholarships | Honhar and student scholarships expanded |
| Electric Bikes | 100,000 distribution plan |
| Parwaz Card | Interest-free loans & support |
| Skills Training | Freelance, AI & jobs focus |
| AI Center | To be built in Lahore |
| Job Programs | Rah-e-Rozgar & creative jobs |
| official sources | 👉 https://punjab.gov.pk |
Understanding the “Year of Youth” Declaration
The declaration that 2026 will be the “Year of Youth” comes from the Punjab government led by CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif, highlighting youth empowerment as a central pillar of provincial policy. According to top news sources and statements from government officials, a suite of youth-focused activities and resources will be rolled out throughout the year. 0
Key Youth Initiatives Announced
The provincial government has unveiled major initiatives that will benefit young people:
- Expansion of scholarship programs for students.
- Distribution of up to 100,000 electric bikes for easier mobility.
- Creation of job support cards and entrepreneurship loans.
- Launch of skills development and digital training portals.
These reflect both official government plans and coverage from top 10 media sources. 1
Education and Scholarship Expansion
Education remains a cornerstone of this youth strategy. The provincial government is increasing the Honhar Scholarship Programme and introducing further financial support for students in universities and colleges. The aim is to reduce financial barriers and promote merit-based support for bright young scholars. 2
Skills & Job Opportunities for the Youth
Officials have outlined several new employment and training opportunities:
- Registration for digital and freelance skills programs.
- Internship placements across both private and public sectors.
- AI and modern tech training from early educational levels.
- Special programs for call center and remote work skills.
This structured approach prioritizes job readiness and future-oriented expertise. 3
Support for Entrepreneurship
To foster entrepreneurship among young Pakistanis, the government will introduce interest-free loans through the Parwaz Card. These funds are intended to support startups, small businesses, and self-employment projects. This strategy helps youth create sustainable careers and contribute to economic growth. 4
Helpline & Contact Information
For youth-related support, queries and program assistance, you can use the following official resources:
- 📞 Punjab Youth Helpline: +92-42-9920-9000 (Punjab Government Contact)
- 📧 Email: info@cm.punjab.gov.pk
- 🌐 Official CM Office Website: cm.punjab.gov.pk – Youth initiatives info and updates. 5
Conclusion
The declaration of 2026 as the “Year of Youth” by CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif marks a significant commitment to uplifting Pakistan’s younger generation. With new scholarships, digital and AI-focused skill building, job support programs, and financial incentives, the initiative aims to equip young people with tools for success. The information here is based on official statements and reporting from top news and government sources. 6
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “Year of Youth” mean?
It means that in 2026, the Punjab government will prioritize youth-focused projects including education, job training and economic opportunities.
Who announced this declaration?
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif made the announcement during a public ceremony covered by multiple news outlets. 7
How can young people benefit from these programs?
Young individuals can benefit through scholarships, skills programs, interest-free loans, and job-related training initiatives.
Where can I find more information?
More details can be found on the official CM Punjab website and government publications. 8
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