In a heartwarming ceremony held at the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) Headquarters, the academic excellence of students from low-income families was celebrated, highlighting the life-changing impact of the Benazir Taleemi Wazaif Programme.
Among the star achievers was Hafiza Maryam Bibi, a 15-year-old from Multan, who secured 1st position in the Multan Board Matriculation Examination. With tears of joy and humility, she shared, “This isn’t just my success—it’s a moment of pride for the entire nation. I owe everything to my parents, teachers, and the support provided by BISP. I am deeply thankful to Allah Almighty and the Benazir Taleemi Wazaif Programme for making this possible.”
The event recognized multiple students whose journeys reflect the program’s transformative power. Hafiz Asad Raza, from a remote village in Fort Abbas, District Bahawalnagar, stood out by securing 3rd position in the Bahawalpur Board, despite the economic struggles of his family. His father, a bus conductor, supports seven children. Asad’s determination and resilience inspired many as he said, “Without BISP’s support, it might have been impossible for me to continue my education.”
Other honorees included Momina Fatima, who secured 3rd position in the Multan Board, and Mehwish, who earned 3rd position in the Karak Board, a district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa where girls often face considerable cultural and financial barriers to education. Mehwish’s achievement stands as a powerful symbol of courage and empowerment.
All four students paid heartfelt tributes to their parents, teachers, and BISP, crediting the Benazir Taleemi Wazaif stipend for helping them overcome adversity and stay focused on their academic goals.
“A Proud Day for Pakistan”
Senator Rubina Khalid, Chairperson of BISP, lauded the students and their families, stating:
“Today is a proud moment for BISP and for Pakistan. These children—especially our brilliant girls—have proven that with the right support, there is no limit to what they can achieve. I congratulate the students and salute the parents whose sacrifices made this success possible. You have made the nation proud.”
She reaffirmed that BISP reflects the vision of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and was institutionalized under the leadership of President Asif Ali Zardari to empower women and families.
“These students are living proof of BISP’s success. Shaheed Bibi dreamed of a Pakistan where every child has access to education, dignity, and the opportunity to contribute to national progress.”
Supporting 12 Million Children Nationwide
Mr. Amer Ali Ahmad, Secretary of BISP, also addressed the gathering. He revealed that nearly 12 million children are currently receiving educational stipends under the Benazir Taleemi Wazaif initiative, backed by a budget of Rs. 82 billion.
“Over 10 million families are part of the BISP network today. These students are not only our pride—they are the ambassadors of this program and the future of Pakistan,” he said.
The ceremony served as a testament to the power of social safety nets and educational investment in unlocking potential and building a more equitable society