Punjab’s Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has taken significant steps to enhance public service delivery and education in the province. She has launched a new app called Maryam Ki Dastak which aims to bring 65 different public services to all districts by December 2024. This ambitious initiative reflects the government’s commitment to leveraging technology for the benefit of its citizens and ensuring a more efficient and transparent administration. The Maryam Ki Dastak app is designed to make public services more accessible and user-friendly. By August 2024, the number of services available in Lahore will increase to 40, eventually reaching 65. The app will start offering services in every division on August 14, making a wide array of services accessible across the province. This includes services from various departments such as development authorities, police, revenue, municipalities, excise, and TMA. Among the key services available through the app are domicile certificates, e-stamping, birth, death, and marriage certificates, property tax payments, token tax, motor vehicle transfer, and new vehicle registration. These services, which were traditionally cumbersome to access, will now be available at the fingertips of citizens, reducing the need for physical visits to government offices. This is expected to significantly enhance the ease of doing business and interacting with government agencies. Citizens can access these services through several methods. They can download and use the Maryam Ki Dastak app on their smartphones, access the services online via a dedicated website, or call a central call center (1202) for assistance. Additionally, citizens can make appointments with representatives of Maryam Ki Dastak for in-person help. This multi-channel approach ensures that all citizens, regardless of their technological proficiency, can benefit from the initiative. The app’s user-friendly interface and comprehensive support system are designed to ensure a seamless experience for all users. The app is expected to bring numerous benefits to the people of Punjab. First and foremost, it will improve accessibility to essential services, particularly for those living in remote and rural areas. By integrating various services into a single digital platform, the government aims to minimize the time and effort required by citizens to complete essential tasks. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce the need for physical visits to government offices, thereby saving time and resources for both the government and the public. Furthermore, the app is likely to improve transparency and accountability in the provision of public services. By digitizing processes and reducing the need for intermediaries, the potential for corruption and mismanagement is significantly lowered. Citizens will have clear records of their transactions and interactions with government agencies, fostering greater trust in public institutions. This transparency is crucial for building a more accountable and efficient government. In addition to launching the Maryam Ki Dastak app, the Punjab government has announced plans to renovate and improve 1,000 schools across the province. This ambitious project aims to enhance the learning environment for students and ensure that educational facilities meet modern standards. The school renovation initiative will focus on several key areas, including upgrading the physical infrastructure of schools such as classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and sports facilities. This will create a more conducive environment for learning and development. Ensuring that schools have adequate sanitation facilities, including clean toilets and proper waste management systems, is also a priority. This is crucial for the health and well-being of students and staff. Improved sanitation will not only promote better health outcomes but also encourage higher attendance rates, particularly among female students. Additionally, implementing safety measures such as secure fencing, proper lighting, and emergency response protocols will ensure the safety of students and staff within school premises. Recognizing the importance of digital literacy and technological skills in the modern world, the Punjab government plans to introduce technology courses for students at the matriculation level. These courses will equip students with essential skills needed to thrive in the digital age and prepare them for future employment opportunities. The technology curriculum will include teaching students fundamental computer skills, introducing them to coding and programming languages such as Python, Java, and HTML, ensuring proficiency in using digital tools and platforms, and educating students about safe and responsible internet use. The introduction of technology courses at the matriculation level is expected to have a profound impact on students and society at large. By equipping young learners with digital skills, the government is laying the foundation for a more technologically adept and competitive workforce. This initiative will also help bridge the digital divide, ensuring that students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to succeed in an increasingly digital world. Additionally, these courses will foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world. Moreover, the emphasis on digital literacy and internet safety will foster a generation of informed and responsible digital citizens. Students will be better prepared to navigate the complexities of the online world and make informed decisions regarding their digital footprint. This awareness is particularly important as cyber threats and digital privacy concerns continue to grow. By teaching students how to protect their personal information and recognize potential online dangers, the government is helping to create a safer and more secure digital environment for future generations. On the occasion of the “International Day for Women in Diplomacy,” Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz acknowledged the exceptional contributions of women diplomats globally. She highlighted that women's leadership and perspectives add a crucial dimension of empathy and determination to diplomatic efforts, which are essential for promoting peace. Her recognition of women’s roles in diplomacy underscores the importance of gender equality and the unique strengths that women bring to leadership positions. This acknowledgment is particularly meaningful as it aligns with the broader goals of the Maryam Ki Dastak initiative, which aims to create a more inclusive and equitable society. The launch of the Maryam Ki Dastak app and the educational initiatives demonstrate Punjab’s commitment to improving public service delivery and education. These measures will significantly enhance the quality of life for the people of Punjab and set a positive example for other regions. By December 2024, the impact of these initiatives will be evident, with improved access to services and better educational opportunities for students. The government’s proactive approach in embracing technology and prioritizing education highlights its dedication to the welfare and development of its citizens. As Punjab continues to progress towards these ambitious goals, the benefits of these initiatives will extend beyond immediate improvements in service delivery and education. They will contribute to the long-term socio-economic development of the province, fostering a more skilled and empowered population. By investing in both technology and education, the Punjab government is ensuring that its citizens are well-equipped to face the challenges and opportunities of the future. The Maryam Ki Dastak app and the school renovation project are just the beginning of a transformative journey towards a more prosperous and equitable Punjab.