The Honhaar Scholarship Program 2024, introduced by Punjab’s Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, is set to launch officially on 4th December 2024 at Punjab University. This groundbreaking initiative is designed to provide financial support to talented but underprivileged students, promoting higher education across the province. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the scholarship program, its features, and benefits.
About the Honhaar Scholarship Program
The Honhaar Scholarship is the largest scholarship initiative in Pakistan’s history, offering 30,000 scholarships annually. With a budget of Rs. 130 billion, the program focuses on providing full tuition fee coverage for undergraduate students across various academic disciplines. The aim is to create equal opportunities for students from low-income families.
Key Features of the Program
The Honhaar Scholarship offers several unique benefits:
- Institutions Covered:
- 65 universities
- 359 colleges
- 12 medical and dental colleges
- Academic Disciplines: Scholarships are available in 68 fields, including medicine, engineering, and social sciences.
- Eligibility: Students from public and private universities in Punjab are eligible.
These scholarships are purely merit-based and ensure opportunities for high-achieving students facing financial constraints.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the scholarship, applicants must meet these conditions:
- Age Limit: Applicants must be under 22 years.
- Income Cap: Family income must not exceed Rs. 300,000 per month.
- Academic Performance:
- Minimum 80% marks for top universities and medical colleges.
- 70% marks for arts and social sciences in public sector institutions.
- Domicile: Applicants must belong to any district of Punjab.
These criteria aim to ensure that the scholarships benefit the most deserving candidates.
Registration and Launch Event
Students were able to register for the Honhaar Scholarship through an online platform. The launch event at Punjab University will formally kickstart the scholarship awards, highlighting the government’s dedication to promoting education.
Benefits of the Scholarship
The Honhaar Scholarship offers the following advantages:
- Covers 100% tuition fees for undergraduate programs spanning 4-5 years.
- Focuses on diverse academic fields, empowering students with quality education.
- Strengthens access to medical, dental, and engineering education for deserving candidates.
Quick Facts Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarships Annually | 30,000 |
| Eligible Institutions | 436 (Universities and Colleges) |
| Age Limit | Below 22 Years |
| Coverage | Full Tuition Fee |
Conclusion
The Honhaar Scholarship Program 2024 is a milestone initiative aimed at reducing financial barriers in education. By offering scholarships across diverse academic disciplines and institutions, the program ensures that talented students can pursue their dreams without financial stress. This effort not only fosters personal growth but also contributes to the nation’s progress by empowering its youth.
FAQs
Q1. How can I apply for the Honhaar Scholarship?
Applications can be submitted through the official website of the Punjab Higher Education Commission: honhaarscholarship.punjabhec.gov.pk.
Q2. Are private university students eligible?
Yes, scholarships are available for students in both public and private universities.
Q3. What expenses does the scholarship cover?
It covers 100% tuition fees for undergraduate programs.
Q4. Is there an income limit for applicants?
Yes, the applicant’s family income must not exceed Rs. 300,000 per month.
This program reflects the Punjab government’s vision of equal educational opportunities for all, setting a strong foundation for future generations.