On Thursday, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz launched the School Nutrition Program in Dera Ghazi Khan, a new initiative aimed at providing free milk to students up to the fifth grade.
At the inauguration ceremony, CM Nawaz underscored her commitment to child welfare across Punjab, stating, “Regardless of the distance between Dera Ghazi Khan and Lahore, my dedication to you remains unwavering. I regard these children as VIPs, and I think of them as a mother would.”
Nawaz expressed her heartfelt surprise at the enthusiastic reception from the local children, saying, “I was amazed to find that the children here know me well. The affection I received today is beyond words.” This strong bond highlights her commitment to addressing the needs of children in even the most remote areas.
By launching the School Nutrition Program in Dera Ghazi Khan, rather than in major cities like Lahore or Rawalpindi, Nawaz is emphasizing her focus on grassroots development. She acknowledged the challenges facing Punjab’s educational system, noting, “With thousands of schools and millions of children in Punjab, resources are limited. However, better times are on the horizon, and I am determined to meet our children’s nutritional needs.”
Despite the program’s significant expense, Nawaz affirmed its importance, stating, “Although this initiative is costly, investing in our children is priceless.”