Daily Times

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, in her Iqbal Day message, paid homage to the contributions of the poet-philosopher Allama Muhammad Iqbal (RA), whose intellectual and poetic works inspired the creation of Pakistan.

The chief minister said that Iqbal’s vision continues to hold immense value for the country’s progress and unity. CM Maryam Nawaz described Iqbal’s message for the new generation as one of self-awareness, stressing the importance of introducing young minds to Iqbal’s thoughts and ideals. “It is essential to enlighten our youth with Iqbal’s thoughts,” she said, adding that Iqbal’s masterpieces, “Shikwa” and “Jawab-e-Shikwa”, remain timeless contributions to literature in both Urdu and Persian. She expressed her desire for ‘Kalam-e-Iqbal’ to become a more prominent part of Pakistan’s educational curriculum to instill national pride and character.

The chief minister noted, “On Iqbal Day, we pledge to adopt the thoughts of the Poet of the East to elevate Pakistan.” She highlighted that devotion to Iqbal’s teachings is the best way to honor his legacy. Reflecting on Iqbal’s role, she said, “Allama Iqbal’s poetry infused a high sense of character and unity within the Muslims of the subcontinent, transforming them into a dynamic and awakened nation.”

She expressed her personal admiration for Iqbal’s verses, particularly his message of compassion, quoting her favorite lines, “May my work be supporting the poor, loving the sick and the weak.” She also shared a prayer for the younger generation: “My God, save me from evil… Be a good guide, guide me on the true path.”

The chief minister underscored her government’s commitment to following Iqbal’s principles, particularly in empowering Punjab’s peasants and the working class to achieve independence and self-respect.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif highlighted the role of science and technology as the foundation of a peaceful and prosperous society in her message for the International Week of Science and Peace, on Saturday. Emphasizing that “the secret of development lies in science and technology,” she underscored the government’s commitment to advancing Punjab through digital innovation.

CM Maryam Nawaz introduced the upcoming Nawaz Sharif IT City as a transformative hub for youth development, noting that the project will host international IT institutions and campuses from renowned universities, providing unprecedented opportunities for young Pakistanis. “Nawaz Sharif IT City will be a land of opportunities for the development of youth,” she said, adding that this initiative will bridge the gap between local talent and the global job market.

To further enhance employability, the chief minister announced that modern IT training, aligned with global job market requirements, is being provided to equip young people for successful self-employment. Additionally, freelancers will receive international certifications to increase their professional competitiveness and potential.

Maryam Nawaz Sharif also emphasized that IT-driven reforms are being implemented across various sectors in Punjab, including education, health, and agriculture, with a vision to digitize every sector within five years. “We are committed to making every sector digital,” she concluded, underscoring the government’s resolve to build a tech-savvy, progressive Punjab.

Separately, the chief minister strongly condemned the Quetta suicide attack.

“The cowardly terrorists who attack innocent citizens, women and children will surely meet their end,” said Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif while expressing a deep sense of sorrow over the loss of precious human lives in Quetta railway station bomb blast. She offered condolences and expressed her heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved families.