Saif says PTI govt committed to inclusive Pakistan

PESHAWAR
The provincial government on Monday distributed scholarships among hundreds of minority students under its flagship “Minority Students Scholarship Distribution Program.”
At the inaugural ceremony held at the District Council Hall, Peshawar, Advisor to the Chief Minister on Information and Public Relations, Barrister Dr. Muhammad Saif, termed the initiative a reflection of the PTI-led government’s commitment to justice, equality, and human development.
“This program is a practical manifestation of our vision for an inclusive Pakistan, as envisioned by PTI founder Imran Khan,” Dr. Saif said. He highlighted past efforts under Khan’s leadership to safeguard minority rights, including the restoration of historical Sikh and Hindu religious sites such as the Kartarpur Corridor and temples in Quetta.
Dr. Saif also praised the Department of Auqaf, Hajj, Religious and Minority Affairs for organizing the program and lauded the contributions of Wazirzada, Focal Person to the Chief Minister on Minority Affairs, for his dedicated service despite personal and political challenges.
As part of the program, around 300 minority students from District Peshawar received scholarship cheques. PhD students were awarded Rs 1 million each, MPhil scholars Rs 200,000, professional degree students Rs 100,000, Master’s students Rs 70,000, Bachelor’s students Rs 60,000, and Intermediate students Rs 50,000. Across the province, approximately 800 students will benefit, with total financial disbursements amounting to Rs 61 million.
Barrister Saif emphasized that state resources belong to all citizens and must be distributed equitably. “The concept of minorities should not equate to marginalization,” he said, citing Islamic principles of equal rights and protection for all faiths.
Addressing the youth, Dr. Saif urged students to view education as a means of fostering rational thinking, civic responsibility, and social consciousness. He encouraged them to pursue goals that serve not only personal ambitions but also the broader good of their communities.