LAHORE: (Monday, April 20, 2026): Punjab University Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Ali emphasized that merit will remain the cornerstone of the selection process and the scholarships will be awarded strictly on the basis of transparency, fairness, and academic performance, ensuring that only the most deserving candidates benefit from the scheme. He was addressing a ceremony regarding HEC Needs-Based Scholarship Programme for the academic year 2025–26 here on Monday. A total of 250 deserving students will be awarded scholarships. On this occasion, Director Planning & Development Prof Dr Hafiz Muhammad Anwar Asghar, faculty members and others were present. In his remarks, PU VC Dr Muhammad Ali said that the initiative aims to support financially disadvantaged yet talented students in pursuing higher education without economic barriers. He said that the programme reflects the university’s continued commitment to promoting equal educational opportunities and academic excellence. He further highlighted that such programmes play a crucial role in empowering students, enabling them to focus on their studies and contribute positively to society. The university administration remains dedicated to expanding access to quality education through collaborations with national organizations, he added. The HEC Needs-Based Scholarship Programme is part of a broader effort to strengthen the higher education sector by supporting students from underprivileged backgrounds.