The Punjab government has announced a major investment in the education sector by allocating more than Rs. 750 billion in the provincial budget for the fiscal year 2026-27.
The budget was presented in the Punjab Assembly on Tuesday by Provincial Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman after receiving approval from the provincial cabinet. The session was attended by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, cabinet members, and lawmakers.
According to budget details, the government plans to continue its focus on student support initiatives and educational infrastructure development. A sum of Rs. 22 billion has been reserved for the Honhaar Scholarship Program, while Rs. 15.69 billion has been allocated for the Laptop Program aimed at facilitating students across the province.
To strengthen science and technology education, the government has earmarked Rs. 33 billion for the establishment and expansion of STEAM Labs in educational institutions. Meanwhile, the Punjab Education Foundation will receive Rs. 55 billion to support educational access and quality improvement programs.
The budget also includes Rs. 6.9 billion for the development of IT laboratories in colleges, reflecting the province’s emphasis on digital learning and technological skills. Additionally, Rs. 7.8 billion has been allocated for the establishment of new colleges, campuses, and sub-campuses to expand higher education opportunities in underserved areas.
The education spending forms a significant part of Punjab’s total proposed budget of Rs. 5.903 trillion for 2026-27. Provincial authorities stated that the overall budget represents an increase of approximately 10.7 percent compared to the current fiscal year, highlighting the government's commitment to social sector development and educational reform.
