The Punjab government has increased the cash reward for top-performing matriculation students from Rs20,000 to Rs100,000, along with announcing laptops and several technology-driven education reforms.

Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat made the announcement while releasing the 2026 annual matric examination results for all educational boards across the province. He said the enhanced prize reflects the government's commitment to recognizing academic excellence and encouraging students to achieve higher standards.

The minister said all Punjab educational boards announced their results simultaneously for the first time to improve transparency and ensure a fair examination process. In addition to the increased cash award, all position holders will also receive a laptop from the provincial government.

Rana Sikandar Hayat said modern technology was used for the first time in preparing examination results. Students can now download officially verified result cards online, while private school students can obtain digitally verified result cards through their schools without requiring additional verification.

He also announced the launch of an AI-powered chatbot that will provide students with instant information about examinations, results and other educational services.

Highlighting future reforms, the minister said Punjab is rapidly digitalizing its educational boards. From next year, authorities plan to introduce a screen-marking system to improve transparency in paper checking. Students will also be able to review their answer sheets through a QR code-based system.

The minister claimed that no complaints were received this year regarding the alleged sale of examination centers. He added that cheating networks had been reduced by 95 percent across Punjab and said enrollment in public universities has also increased significantly.