Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has revealed plans to launch Pakistan’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) University in Lahore, aiming to revolutionize education nationwide. Speaking at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum 2025 in Turkey, she stressed the urgent need to prioritize girls’ education globally. Highlighting Punjab’s AI-driven educational reforms, she described them as a transformative leap toward equipping students with the skills needed for a tech-savvy future.
Maryam Nawaz expressed heartfelt admiration for Turkish First Lady Emine Erdoğan and commended the Maarif Foundation for hosting the forum during a pivotal time globally. She emphasized the deep bond between Pakistan and Turkey, describing them as two nations united by a shared vision and spirit, while conveying a message of love and solidarity from Punjab.
Since taking office in March 2024, she highlighted her efforts to build on the legacy of Nawaz Sharif and Shehbaz Sharif, ushering in a new era of development with a focus on economic growth, education, and healthcare. Among her key achievements, she mentioned the successful upgrade of over 4,000 primary schools in Punjab.
Maryam Nawaz announced several transformative initiatives, including the introduction of digital learning rooms in 6,000 schools, replacing traditional chalkboards with touchscreens. She highlighted the reopening of previously closed schools and the launch of 50,000 merit-based scholarships to support talented students. To combat malnutrition, a daily milk program has been introduced in schools.
Additionally, 30,000 new teachers have been recruited on merit, with professional development programs tailored to modern educational needs. AI-based learning platforms have also been launched to enhance student learning experiences.
Maryam Nawaz unveiled the concept of “Nawaz Sharif Internet City,” envisioning it as the cornerstone of Digital Pakistan. She emphasized that education extends beyond academics, serving as a tool to address deprivation and foster a better world.
In her address, she shed light on global humanitarian crises, particularly the plight of children in conflict zones. She spoke of Palestinian children buried under rubble, Afghan girls denied education, children in occupied Jammu and Kashmir facing violence, and Sudanese children walking miles for food.
Concluding her speech, she passionately advocated for inclusive and equitable education, reaffirming her commitment to bringing modern learning opportunities to every child, especially in rural areas.
