PESHAWAR: Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan and SAFRON, and Pakistan Muslim League-N Khyber Pakhtunkhwa President Engineer Amir Muqam on Wednesday addressed a ceremony at Khyber Medical University (KMU), emphasizing the importance of merit and youth empowerment. The event marked the distribution of laptops among students under the Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme.

Speaking as chief guest, Muqam said Pakistan is recognized globally for its resilience and capability, adding that with faith and determination, no one can compete with the country. He stressed that merit must guide national progress and noted that laptops are being awarded strictly on merit. “The youth are the bright future of Pakistan,” he remarked.

He recalled that the laptop scheme was first introduced in Punjab in 2011 by Shehbaz Sharif and expanded nationwide in 2013 by then Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. After being discontinued in 2018, the program was revived in 2022 by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Muqam congratulated students and parents, reiterating that the scheme is 100 percent merit-driven.

The minister condemned recent incidents of terrorism in Islamabad and Balochistan, recalling the APS tragedy and stressing that peace is essential for education and employment. He said Pakistan’s defense remains strong and praised the spirit of the people during last year’s conflict with India.

Muqam told students that the medical profession requires dedication and a spirit of service, adding that patriotism and humanity are key to success. He assured them of his support in resolving their issues and emphasized that investing in youth is investing in the country’s future.

Earlier, KMU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Zia ul Haq, faculty members, and administrative officers welcomed the minister and briefed him on the university’s academic, research, and development projects. Muqam appreciated KMU’s role in promoting medical education and assured full government support for strengthening the sector. He also planted a commemorative tree on the university lawn.