Govt Increases PM Laptop Scheme Quota. In a major step toward promoting digital inclusion and youth empowerment, the Government of Pakistan has announced a significant increase in the PM Laptop Scheme quota for students in Balochistan. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, through the Prime Minister’s Youth Program (PMYP), has expanded the allocation from 10,000 to 18,000 laptops to ensure more students gain access to modern technology and educational tools.
Key Announcement by PM Youth Program Chairman
During the inauguration ceremony of Artificial Intelligence and Cybercrime courses held in Chagai DHA Quetta, Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Program, made the official announcement.
He stated that the federal government remains fully committed to empowering the youth with technical education, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence, cyber security, and emerging technologies.
“This increase in laptop quota reflects our dedication to ensure that the youth of Balochistan have equal access to modern education and digital resources,” said Rana Mashhood.
Government’s Focus on Skill Development
The PM Youth Program (PMYP) continues to play a central role in developing the technical and professional skills of young people across the country. Rana Mashhood highlighted that the federation recognizes the strategic importance of Balochistan and is determined to equip its youth with the tools needed for the modern job market.
This initiative aligns with the government’s broader Digital Pakistan Vision, aimed at bridging the technological divide and enhancing productivity through digital literacy.
Expansion of PM Youth Initiatives in Balochistan
The chairman announced that several new initiatives are being introduced under PMYP to support entrepreneurship, skill training, and higher education in Balochistan. These include:
| Program | Focus Area | Target Group |
|---|---|---|
| PM Laptop Scheme | Digital learning & connectivity | University students |
| AI & Cybercrime Courses | Emerging tech skills | IT & Computer Science students |
| PM Startup Loans | Youth entrepreneurship | Young innovators & graduates |
| Technical Training | Vocational & trade skills | Rural and urban youth |
Such programs not only enhance learning opportunities but also promote self-employment and innovation among the province’s youth.
Support for the Agriculture Sector
Rana Mashhood further emphasized that the promotion of agriculture remains one of the government’s top priorities. He noted that several young entrepreneurs from Balochistan have already received startup loans under PMYP’s agricultural support initiatives, enabling them to modernize farming practices and contribute to food security.
Youth Transitioning from Job Seekers to Job Creators
Highlighting the rapid global transformation driven by technology, the chairman remarked that Pakistan’s youth are shifting from job seekers to job creators. He noted that Pakistan is among the few countries with a National Artificial Intelligence Policy, which provides a roadmap for integrating AI into education, governance, and the economy.
This policy aims to prepare the young generation for the future of work — one driven by AI, robotics, and automation.
Increased Funding for Global Employment Opportunities
In addition to expanding educational initiatives, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also increased Newtech funds to strengthen employment opportunities for skilled Pakistanis abroad.
The government aims to double foreign exchange earnings within the next three years by facilitating youth employment in key international markets such as the Middle East, Europe, Korea, Canada, and the United States.
This move not only supports economic growth but also provides young professionals with global exposure and experience.
Why This Initiative Matters
Expanding the PM Laptop Scheme quota for Balochistan is more than a symbolic gesture — it represents a strategic investment in the province’s youth potential. By integrating education, technology, and skill training, the government is helping students compete in both national and international arenas.
This approach ensures that even remote and underserved regions are part of Pakistan’s digital transformation journey, fostering inclusive growth and equal opportunity for all.
Conclusion
The increase in the PM Laptop Scheme quota from 10,000 to 18,000 marks a transformative step in Pakistan’s digital empowerment drive, particularly for students in Balochistan. Through the Prime Minister’s Youth Program, the government continues to invest in education, technology, and skill development to nurture a generation capable of driving innovation and economic progress.
As Pakistan’s youth embrace AI, cyber security, and entrepreneurship, they stand poised to shape a future that’s not only technologically advanced but also globally competitive.
FAQs
Q1. What is the PM Laptop Scheme?
The PM Laptop Scheme is a federal initiative to provide laptops to deserving university students to promote digital learning and research across Pakistan.
Q2. How many laptops are allocated for Balochistan under the new quota?
The quota has been increased from 10,000 to 18,000 laptops for Balochistan students.
Q3. Who announced the increase in the PM Laptop Scheme quota?
The announcement was made by Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Program.
Q4. What other initiatives are part of the PM Youth Program?
The program includes startup loans, technical training, AI and cybercrime courses, and entrepreneurship support for Pakistani youth.
