Barrister Dr. Saif reaffirms PTI’s commitment to inclusive development as 800 students from minority communities receive educational grants
PESHAWAR: In a significant step towards educational inclusion and social empowerment of minority communities, the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa today distributed scholarships among hundreds of minority students under its flagship “Minority Students Scholarship Distribution Program.” Speaking at the inaugural ceremony held at District Council Hall, Peshawar, Advisor to the Chief Minister on Information and Public Relations, Barrister Dr. Muhammad Saif, described the initiative as a practical manifestation of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) longstanding commitment to justice, equality, and human development.
Barrister Dr. Saif highlighted that the scholarship distribution reflects the PTI government’s commitment to welfare, equity, and inclusion, in line with the vision of PTI founder Imran Khan for the betterment and upliftment of minority communities in Pakistan. “Imran Khan has always emphasized an inclusive Pakistan, where every citizen, regardless of faith, is given equal opportunity to grow and contribute to national development,” he remarked. Under his premiership, Imran Khan’s administration took practical steps to protect and restore minority religious heritage. Notably, the government restored century-old Sikh and Hindu places of worship, including the Kartarpur Corridor and sites in Quetta, demonstrating actionable commitment beyond rhetoric.
Barrister Dr Saif extended special appreciation to the Department of Auqaf, Hajj, Religious and Minority Affairs for organizing the event, and particularly to the Focal Person to the Chief Minister on Minority Affairs, Mr. Wazirzada, for his dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to serving the minority community despite facing politically and personally challenging times.
According to details, around 300 students belonging to minority communities in District Peshawar were given scholarship cheques. PhD scholars were awarded with Rs 1 million, MPhil students with Rs 200,000, students enrolled in professional degree programs with Rs 100,000, Master’s degree students with Rs 70,000, Bachelor’s degree students with Rs 60,000, and Intermediate students with Rs 50,000 each. In total, around 800 minority students across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will benefit from this program, with an overall financial disbursement of Rs 61 million (6 crore 10 lakh rupees).
Emphasizing the moral and constitutional responsibility of the state, Barrister Dr. Saif said that state resources belong to all citizens of Pakistan, and distributing them equitably is a key indicator of good governance. He stressed that the concept of minorities should not translate into social or economic marginalization. Citing Islamic political philosophy, he reminded the audience that Islam advocates for the protection and welfare of all citizens, irrespective of faith.
Addressing the students, Barrister Dr. Saif urged them to view education not just as a means to earn a livelihood but as a tool to develop rational thinking, civic responsibility, and social consciousness. He said that true education cultivates the mind and shapes individuals who are capable of contributing positively to society. He also reminded the students that their ultimate goal should go beyond personal success and should focus on serving others and making meaningful contributions to their communities.
Barrister Dr. Saif concluded by reiterating PTI’s unwavering commitment to minority rights and educational empowerment. He lauded Mr. Wazirzada once again for his dedication and emphasized that the PTI government under the leadership, guidance and vision of Imran Khan will continue to protect the rights and dignity of all Pakistanis, regardless of caste, creed, or religion. He encouraged the youth to rise above material pursuits and dedicate their lives to higher moral and social goals, adding that hard work, sincerity, and service to humanity never go unrewarded.