Governor Sindh and HEC Chairman Visit Shah Abdul Latif University, Distribute Laptops Under Prime Minister’s Youth Program
Governor Sindh and HEC Chairman Visit Shah Abdul Latif University, Distribute Laptops Under Prime Minister’s Youth Program
Dated : 23 April 2026
SALU Khairpur .
At Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur, Governor of Sindh Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi and Chairman of the Higher Education Commission Pakistan, Prof. Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar, visited the university today as Chief Guest and Guest of Honour at a laptop distribution ceremony held under the Prime Minister’s Youth Program.
The ceremony was held at the historic Allama I.I. Qazi Hall, where laptops were distributed among top-performing students selected under the merit-based national initiative.
The event aimed to recognize academic excellence and equip outstanding students with modern technological tools to enhance learning, research, and digital engagement. The ceremony commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran and the national anthem. Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Yousuf Khushk welcomed the distinguished guests and presented an overview of the university, highlighting its achievements, ongoing reforms, and future development plans.
In his address, Governor Hashmi emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering youth through education and digital access. “The Prime Minister’s Youth Program reflects our resolve to prepare young minds for the challenges of the 21st century. These laptops are not just machines; they are gateways to knowledge, innovation, and self-reliance,” he said.
The Governor praised the Vice Chancellor and the university for their longstanding contributions to higher education in the region. He encouraged students to utilize the laptops for academic research, skill development, and active participation in the country’s growing digital economy.
Governor Hashmi further remarked that an unfortunate person is one who fails to recognize his own blessings. Referring to humanity as Ashraf-ul-Makhluqat (the noblest of creation), he urged students to contribute positively to society with gratitude and dedication. Noting that Pakistan will complete 100 years of independence in 2047, he called upon the youth to play a meaningful role in the nation’s progress and development.
Encouraging students to work hard and pursue excellence, he said that future vice chancellors, commissioners, IGs, chief ministers, and parliamentarians would emerge from among them. He also paid tribute to national leaders for strengthening the country’s defense and emphasized that Pakistan possesses strong defensive capabilities to respond effectively to any challenge.
The Governor further stated that despite numerous challenges, Pakistan’s armed forces have always responded with courage and professionalism, ensuring the country’s security remains strong. He urged students to respect their parents and teachers and to use their education for the betterment of the nation. He described the laptop distribution initiative as a significant step toward promoting equitable and quality education.
Addressing the ceremony, HEC Chairman Prof. Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar assured full support for students and higher education institutions. He stated that Pakistani students, particularly those from Sindh, are making remarkable progress in the digital sector and are ranked among the leading contributors in global e-commerce initiatives. He revealed that more than 100 new research projects have been approved this year, compared to 49 projects last year.
Speaking about the government’s commitment to higher education, Dr. Akhtar said that all research projects would undergo a blind review process to ensure transparency and merit-based selection. He also noted that female students continue to outperform their male counterparts in several academic disciplines.
Highlighting ongoing educational initiatives, he said that the government is introducing multiple programs focused on skills development, digital learning, and employment opportunities. “This scheme, along with laptops and skills training, is the need of the time,” he remarked, adding that Chromebooks would also be provided to students in future phases. He appreciated the talent and academic potential of students in Sindh after visiting several universities across the province.
Dr. Fahad Shafique, Sindh Coordinator of the Prime Minister’s Youth Program and distinguished guest at the ceremony, briefed the audience on the objectives of the initiative. He explained that the program is based on the 4Es framework — Education, Employment/Entrepreneurship, Engagement, and Environment — aimed at empowering youth through education, entrepreneurial opportunities, constructive engagement, and professional training. He noted that training is currently being offered in more than 200 fields, while initiatives such as scholarships, laptops, and interest-free loans are helping young people build sustainable futures.
Khurram Abbas Bhatti and Raja Ansari also addressed the gathering.
Among those present at the ceremony were former MPA Sorath Thebo, Sulaiman Ahmed, Regional Director, HEC Pakistan Sindh, Dr. Sohail Ahmed (Director, HEC Pakistan Sindh),along with faculty members, administrative officers, and a large number of students.
The ceremony was also attended by Pro-Vice Chancellors Prof. Dr. Maqsood Zia and Prof. Dr. Wahid Bux Jatoi; Deans Prof. Dr. Ghulam Mustafa Mashori, Prof. Dr. Noor Ahmed Shaikh, Prof. Dr. Minhoon Khan Laghari, Prof. Dr. Mushtaque Ali Jakhrani, Prof. Dr. Liaquat Ali Chandio, and Prof. Dr. Agha Nadia; along with Prof. Irum Rani, Prof. Dr. Ikhtiar Ali Ghumro, Prof. Dr. Tasleem Abro, Dr. Firdous Bugati, Dr. Muzafar Sirohi, Dr. Amjad Mughal, Dr. Sahib Oad, Registrar Muhammad Hassan Halepoto, Qazi Nizamuddin, Muhammad Murad Peerzado, and Mujtaba Jatoi.
The proceedings of the event were conducted by Dr. Ali Raza Lashari and Shumaila Rizvi.
Earlier, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Yousuf Khushk presented a commemorative shield, Ajrak, and traditional Sindhi cap to Governor Sindh Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi.
Media Section
Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur
