PM Shehbaz Increases Laptop Scheme Quota for Students — Big Boost for Youth (2025 Update). The Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme 2025 just got a major upgrade!
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved a significant increase in the laptop quota, particularly for students in Balochistan, taking it from 10,000 to 18,000 units.
This bold step under the Prime Minister’s Youth Program (PMYP) signals the government’s firm commitment to youth empowerment, digital literacy, and regional inclusion. The announcement, made by Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, Chairman of PMYP, is a clear message that Pakistan’s youth are the driving force behind national progress and innovation.
Federal Government’s Vision: Empowering the Youth Through Technology
The expansion of the PM Shehbaz Laptop Scheme is not just about gadgets—it’s about creating equal learning opportunities for students across Pakistan.
During the inauguration of Artificial Intelligence and Cybercrime courses in Chagai DHA Quetta, Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan highlighted that the federal government is investing heavily in digital education to make youth future-ready.
“The federation’s focus is on building the skills of Balochistan’s youth,” he stated. “PM Shehbaz Sharif’s decision to expand the laptop quota reflects the government’s vision of a technologically empowered generation.”
Key Objectives of the Laptop Scheme 2025
| Objective | Description |
|---|---|
| Digital Inclusion | Ensure that students from all provinces, especially underdeveloped regions like Balochistan, get access to modern tools. |
| Youth Empowerment | Provide equal learning and innovation opportunities to bridge educational gaps. |
| Skill Development | Encourage youth to engage in Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. |
| Employment Readiness | Prepare students to compete for local and global tech-driven jobs. |
PM Shehbaz Sharif’s Commitment to Equal Opportunities
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has repeatedly emphasized that no region should be left behind in Pakistan’s digital transformation. Increasing the laptop quota for Balochistan is a major example of this inclusive approach.
Under this initiative, thousands of talented students will gain access to laptops that can support their academic, professional, and entrepreneurial aspirations.
The government believes that by equipping students with technology, they will be able to:
- Enhance online learning and research capacity.
- Develop digital startups.
- Learn technical skills in data analysis, coding, and cybersecurity.
- Participate in remote job markets.
Focus on Artificial Intelligence & Cybersecurity Training
The inauguration ceremony where this announcement was made also celebrated the launch of AI and Cybercrime courses under PMYP.
Pakistan is now among the few countries with an officially recognized National Artificial Intelligence Policy—a huge step toward future-ready education.
Highlights of the AI & Cybercrime Training Initiative
- Hands-on learning modules for students in Balochistan and other regions.
- Partnerships with universities and IT institutions to provide training.
- Focus on AI-based problem solving, ethical hacking, digital forensics, and data protection.
- Building an ecosystem for innovation-driven startups led by youth.
By aligning the PM Shehbaz Laptop Scheme 2025 with AI education, the government is creating a strong foundation for Digital Pakistan.
Transforming Youth from Job Seekers to Job Creators
A key highlight of the government’s youth policy is transforming the mindset of students—from seeking jobs to creating employment.
Under the Prime Minister’s Youth Program, several initiatives complement the laptop scheme:
- Startup Support Grants for young entrepreneurs.
- Interest-free loans under the Youth Business Scheme.
- Digital Skill Training through the PM e-Learning Program.
- Scholarships and Internships under the HEC and NAVTTC partnerships.
This ecosystem ensures that the laptops distributed under PM Shehbaz’s initiative become tools of productivity, innovation, and financial growth.
Agriculture and Tech-Based Startups: Building a Modern Balochistan
During his address, Rana Mashhood emphasized the importance of combining agriculture with technology to transform Pakistan’s economy.
He mentioned that several young entrepreneurs in Balochistan have already launched agri-tech startups using government support programs.
Examples of Supported Sectors
| Sector | Initiative | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture | Smart irrigation & crop-monitoring startups | Improved efficiency & higher yields |
| Technology | Software and mobile app development | Local employment generation |
| Education | Digital learning platforms | Access to quality education for rural students |
| Entrepreneurship | Youth Innovation Challenges | Encouraging self-employment |
This shows how the laptop scheme is not only about education but also about fostering innovation across multiple industries.
Expanding Global Employment Opportunities for Pakistani Youth
Under PM Shehbaz Sharif’s direction, the NewTech Fund has been enhanced to help skilled Pakistani youth explore international job markets.
This fund supports training programs, certifications, and placements in countries such as:
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Saudi Arabia
- South Korea
- Canada
- United States (USA)
- Europe
The aim is to double Pakistan’s foreign exchange earnings within three years by enabling young professionals to secure high-demand digital jobs abroad.
Why Increasing the Laptop Quota Matters
Many students, especially from remote areas of Balochistan, face challenges in accessing online resources due to lack of equipment. The increase from 10,000 to 18,000 laptops addresses this gap and ensures equal opportunity.
Benefits for Students
- Access to digital classrooms and virtual internships.
- Improved academic research and project submissions.
- Skill development in programming, AI, and cloud computing.
- Easier communication with mentors and global experts.
- Increased chances for online freelancing and entrepreneurship.
How to Apply for the Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme 2025
Although this announcement focuses on quota expansion, students who wish to apply for the next laptop distribution phase can follow these steps:
- Visit the Official Portal: Go to pmyp.gov.pk or the HEC Laptop Scheme page.
- Sign Up or Log In: Create an account or use your existing HEC credentials.
- Fill in Required Details: Enter CNIC, university enrollment number, and program details.
- Upload Documents: Include your student ID card, transcripts, and proof of enrollment.
- Submit Application: Review and submit before the closing date.
Tip: Always verify your eligibility with your university’s focal person to ensure your application is processed under the correct province and quota.
Government’s Broader Digital Pakistan Vision
The PM Shehbaz Laptop Scheme 2025 complements other Digital Pakistan initiatives, such as:
- National Freelancing Program (NFP) – enabling remote earning through skill development.
- E-Rozgar Training Centers – building employability skills for graduates.
- Pakistan Startup Fund – investing in tech-based ideas.
- Digital Literacy Campaigns – teaching online safety and ethical use of technology.
Together, these programs aim to make Pakistan a regional technology hub while promoting inclusive economic growth.
Expert Insight: What This Means for Students
From an educational and professional standpoint, this expansion:
- Bridges the digital divide between urban and rural students.
- Encourages innovation by giving access to powerful learning tools.
- Builds confidence among youth to participate in the global economy.
- Creates opportunities for networking and collaboration across universities.
This move positions Pakistan’s youth at the forefront of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR)—where AI, automation, and digital skills will define success.
FAQs
1. What is the Prime Minister’s Laptop Scheme 2025?
It’s a government initiative under the PM Youth Program (PMYP) that provides free laptops to outstanding university and college students to enhance digital education and skill development.
2. How many laptops will be distributed in Balochistan in 2025?
The quota has been increased from 10,000 to 18,000 laptops, ensuring more students from underdeveloped regions get access to digital tools.
3. Who announced the laptop quota increase?
The announcement was made by Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Program, during the inauguration of AI and Cybercrime courses in Quetta.
4. How can students apply for the PM Shehbaz Laptop Scheme 2025?
Students can apply online via the official PMYP portal or HEC website by submitting their credentials and academic records before the deadline.
5. What other youth programs are part of PM Shehbaz’s vision?
Other major initiatives include Youth Business Loans, E-Rozgar, Startup Fund, and Digital Skills Training programs to support entrepreneurship and innovation.
Conclusion
The expansion of the PM Shehbaz Laptop Scheme 2025 is more than just a policy move—it’s a vision for a stronger, smarter, and self-reliant Pakistan. By increasing the laptop quota for Balochistan students, the government has taken a major step toward bridging the digital divide and empowering the next generation.
