In a bold move to revolutionize education and empower the next generation, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has unveiled an ambitious blueprint to introduce smart classrooms and cutting-edge digital labs across the province’s government schools. The announcement, made during her address on Digital Learning Day, underscores her administration’s commitment to bridging the gap between traditional learning and the demands of a tech-driven world.
“Progress today is inseparable from technology,” Maryam declared, emphasizing that equipping Punjab’s youth with modern skills is no longer optional but essential. “Our students deserve the tools to compete globally, and we’re making that a reality with this initiative.” Punjab’s CM Maryam Nawaz
The plan goes beyond hardware upgrades. The government is rolling out a comprehensive IT training program tailored to international standards, offering courses in artificial intelligence (AI), software development, and freelancing. These programs aim to certify students with skills that unlock opportunities in the global marketplace, from remote freelancing gigs to high-demand tech roles.
A centerpiece of this vision is the upcoming “Nawaz Sharif IT City” in Lahore, poised to become Pakistan’s first dedicated hub for technological innovation. Slated for completion by late 2025, the IT City will boast twin towers housing advanced facilities, including a plug-and-play call center hub designed to blend education with immediate job prospects. Maryam revealed that several prestigious international IT universities have already shown interest in setting up campuses within the city, a move that could elevate Punjab’s status as a regional leader in digital education.
The Chief Minister framed the initiative as a game-changer for Punjab’s youth, offering them not just knowledge but the independence to thrive in a competitive global economy. “This is about more than classrooms—it’s about creating a future where our children lead, innovate, and succeed,” she said.
With smart classrooms rolling out and the IT City on the horizon, Punjab is positioning itself as a powerhouse of innovation and economic growth, harnessing technology to transform lives and livelihoods across the province.