Source: NextID
Punjab Govt partners with Google to offer free IT certification courses to 100,000+ students. Cybersecurity, AI, Business Intelligence. Apply now for Honhaar scholarships and laptop scheme.
Punjab Govt Partners with Google for Free IT Courses
By Admin | Published Apr 17, 2026 | 3:30 pm
The Punjab Government has announced a series of education reforms, with Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz unveiling new initiatives in collaboration with Google.
The decisions were finalized during a meeting in Lahore, focusing on scholarships, IT training, and infrastructure improvements.
Free Google Certification Courses
Under the initiative, more than 100,000 students across Punjab will receive free certification courses supported by Google.
The courses, which typically cost between $400 and $1,000, will cover areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and business intelligence, with durations ranging from three to six months.
IT Labs and Performance Monitoring
The chief minister approved the establishment of modern IT laboratories in 166 government colleges.
A new performance evaluation system will also be introduced, setting key performance indicators (KPIs) for principals, teachers, and institutions, as well as for vice chancellors of public universities.
Scholarships and Academic Expansion
The Honhaar Scholarship Program has been expanded, with approval granted to award scholarships to 62,949 students simultaneously for the first time.
Authorities have been directed to ensure all eligible students are included, with funds to be released in phases.
Additionally, 36 commerce colleges in 29 districts will be affiliated with 19 public universities, offering 14 BS programs in fields such as business, finance, IT, and e-commerce.
Transport and Student Support Initiatives
The government also approved the introduction of electric bus services for students. In the second phase of the laptop scheme, special and minority students will be included on an open merit basis.
More than 38,000 students benefited in the first phase, while over 142,000 applications have been received for the next phase.
Performance Review
Officials informed the meeting that approximately 994,000 students appeared in Grade 8 assessments, with a 92% pass rate among female students and 84% among male students.
The chief minister noted that female students secured the top three positions.
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