ISLAMABAD — COMSATS University Islamabad, in collaboration with the Higher Education Commission (HEC), held the Prime Minister’s Youth Laptop Scheme distribution ceremony on Thursday, marking the latest phase of the government’s initiative to expand digital access for students across Pakistan.
Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Dr. Musadik Masood Malik inaugurated the event as chief guest. In his address, he highlighted the challenges and opportunities presented by rapid advances in artificial intelligence and digital technologies, urging students to use the laptops as tools to unlock their potential. He encouraged the younger generation to move beyond traditional job‑centric approaches and prepare for higher‑order roles that create opportunities for others.
Syeda Amnah Batool, MNA and focal person for the scheme, congratulated the awardees and emphasized that Pakistani students are competing on global standards, including those set by Silicon Valley. She noted that Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif had revived the program nationwide due to its broad socio‑economic impact and role in bridging the digital divide.
HEC Advisor (IT) Nazeer Hussain briefed the audience on the commission’s ongoing digital transformation, including automated degree verification and the establishment of new data centers in Lahore and Karachi.
Rector of COMSATS University Islamabad, Prof. Dr. Raheel Qamar, described the laptops as catalysts for student empowerment and innovation. He linked the initiative to the university’s 6‑C Framework, designed to prepare graduates for Industry 5.0 by building skills in coding, cloud, cybersecurity, communication, creativity, and co‑intelligence. He also underscored the university’s sustainability efforts, including tree‑planting campaigns and a ban on single‑use plastics, while calling for stronger government action against deforestation.
Students from multiple departments received laptops during the ceremony, attended by senior university officials and HEC representatives.
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