Punjab to Start Laptop Distribution in Another Major Division: Ceremony Scheduled at University of Gujrat

Punjab to Start Laptop Distribution in Another Major Division: Ceremony Scheduled at University of Gujrat

In a significant push towards digital empowerment in higher education, the Punjab government is set to expand its flagship laptop scheme to another major division. Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat has officially announced that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif will preside over the next phase of laptop distribution, scheduled to take place in the Gujranwala Division.

The much-anticipated ceremony is confirmed to be held at the University of Gujrat (UOG) on Monday. This event marks a crucial milestone in the provincial government’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and rewarding academic excellence among students. The Gujranwala division ceremony is part of a broader, meticulously planned rollout that aims to cover all educational districts across Punjab.

Expanding the Scope of the CM Punjab Laptop Scheme

The development comes as the provincial administration accelerates the distribution process under the revamped Chief Minister’s Laptop Program. Following successful ceremonies in other divisions, the focus now shifts to Gujranwala, where thousands of students from public and now private sector universities are expected to benefit.

Officials from the Higher Education Department have confirmed that the government is moving forward with a "division-by-division" strategy to ensure transparency and organized disbursement. This method allows for better crowd management at ceremonies and ensures that students receive their laptops directly from the Chief Minister or other high-ranking officials, adding a layer of prestige to the award.

Extended Deadline and Revised Eligibility Criteria

In a move that has been widely welcomed by the student community, the Punjab government recently extended the last date for submission of applications under the CM Punjab Laptop Program . Students now have until February 28th, 2026 , to submit their applications through the official online portal.

This extension provides a crucial window of opportunity for students who may have missed the initial deadlines or faced difficulties during the registration process. The government has encouraged all eligible students to utilize this time to complete their applications to avoid missing out on this transformative initiative.

Furthermore, in a landmark decision aimed at inclusivity, the government has significantly broadened the eligibility criteria. Under the revised policy, the program is no longer exclusive to public sector institutions. Students enrolled in private universities across Punjab are now eligible to apply for a free laptop.

To qualify, private university students must have secured a minimum of 65 percent marks in their most recent annual examinations. This policy shift acknowledges the vital role private institutions play in the country's higher education landscape and ensures that deserving students from all academic backgrounds have equal access to digital learning tools.

A Vision for a Digital Punjab

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has consistently emphasized the importance of technology in modern education. The laptop scheme is not merely a distribution drive but a strategic investment in the youth, aimed at equipping them with the tools necessary to compete in a globalized digital economy.

"Providing laptops to bright students is an investment in the future of Pakistan," the Chief Minister has stated in previous addresses. "These devices are not just machines, they are portals to knowledge, tools for innovation, and instruments for self-reliance."

The program is expected to benefit tens of thousands of students across the province. By providing high-performance laptops, the government aims to facilitate research, improve access to online learning resources, and enhance the overall quality of education. The inclusion of private university students is particularly notable, as it ensures a merit-based, uniform standard of support for higher education across both public and private sectors.

Gujranwala Division Gears Up for the Ceremony

The University of Gujrat, the venue for Monday's high-profile event, is currently finalizing preparations to host the Chief Minister and a large number of student attendees. University administrations across the Gujranwala division, which includes districts like Gujranwala, Gujrat, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, and Wazirabad, have been directed to compile lists of eligible students and coordinate logistics.

Students from affiliated colleges and universities in the division who have already been shortlisted are being notified to attend the ceremony. For many, this event represents a moment of pride and a significant financial relief, allowing them to focus on their studies without the burden of purchasing expensive digital equipment.

How to Apply Before the Deadline

With the deadline extended to February 28th, 2026 , eligible students are urged to complete their applications promptly. The process is entirely online and designed to be user-friendly.

Eligibility Snapshot:

• Enrollment: Must be enrolled in a recognized public or private university or college in Punjab.

• Academic Requirement: Must have secured a minimum of 65% marks in the last annual examination (specific criteria may apply for different degree programs).

• Application: Apply via the official CM Punjab Laptop Scheme portal before the deadline.

The Punjab government has also set up helplines and support desks at universities to assist students facing technical issues with their applications. As Punjab prepares for another major distribution ceremony in Gujranwala, the message from the provincial government is clear: academic excellence will be rewarded, and access to technology will be democratized. With the extended deadline and the inclusion of private university students, the scheme is set to cover more ground than ever before. All eyes will now be on the University of Gujrat on Monday as Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif hands over the tools of the future to the architects of tomorrow's Pakistan.