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Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced that students enrolled in private universities will now be eligible for free laptops under the provincial laptop scheme, marking a major expansion of the government’s digital education initiative. The decision, unveiled on January 25, 2026, aims to ensure equal learning opportunities for students across all higher education sectors.
Speaking on the International Day of Education, the chief minister emphasized that education is a fundamental right and not a privilege reserved for a few. Until now, the Punjab laptop scheme was limited to public sector universities. With this expansion, private university students who have secured at least 65 percent marks can also apply for a free laptop.
“Access to technology is essential for modern education, and no capable student should be left behind,” Maryam Nawaz said, reaffirming the government’s commitment to digital inclusion and academic support.
The Punjab government has officially opened applications for eligible private university students. Applicants can submit their details online through the Higher Education Department’s official portal at cmlaptophed.punjab.gov.pk. The initiative is expected to benefit thousands of students by improving access to online learning resources, research tools, and digital coursework.
Punjab’s laptop scheme has been a flagship education project for years, helping students adapt to digital learning environments. By extending the program to private institutions, the government aims to reduce the digital divide and strengthen higher education outcomes across the province. Education experts say the move could significantly boost academic performance and technological skills among university students.
