The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, has launched Round 3 of the Hunarmand Naujawan programme to empower young people across the province with digital skills and sustainable career opportunities. The programme is being implemented through the Punjab Skills Development Fund (PSDF).
While the programme targets youth in general, a special initiative has been introduced for educated women from rural areas. This component aims to help women build careers from home by providing digital training and financial support.
Under the scheme, selected women will receive a monthly stipend of Rs12,000, which includes Rs5,000 as a training allowance and Rs7,000 for internet and device support.
According to PSDF, participants will complete six months of certified, instructor-led digital training. In addition to technical skills, the programme offers mentoring, career guidance, and exposure to opportunities in freelancing, remote work, and e-commerce, enabling women to achieve financial independence.
To be eligible, applicants must have at least 16 years of education, be residents of rural Punjab, and fall within the age limit of 21 to 40 years. Candidates are also required to pass an entry test.
The deadline to apply for this women-focused component of the Hunarmand Naujawan programme is January 20, 2026.
CM Maryam Nawaz Inaugurates Lahore Development Plan Phase-II
Earlier, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz formally inaugurated Phase II of the Lahore Development Plan during a meeting held to review its progress.
Under this phase, 6,284 streets across Lahore will be fully upgraded. This includes 5,798 streets under the Municipal Corporation and 486 streets managed by WASA. The upgradation work is expected to be completed by June 30 next year.
CM Maryam Nawaz stated that there would be no compromise on the quality of development and warned that delays would not be tolerated. She said the plan aims to restore all parts of Lahore with dignity and improve living conditions for residents.
After the completion of the project, she added, every neighbourhood in Lahore will become a source of pride for its people.
