International Youth Day is a momentous occasion that celebrates the vitality, creativity, and potential of young people around the globe. For Pakistan, a country with a burgeoning youth population, this day serves as a reminder of the immense opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. The latest digital census, the youth in Pakistan constitute a significant portion of the population, underscoring the need for robust platforms and initiatives to harness their potential.
Demographic of Youth in Pakistan
The 2023 digital census of Pakistan reveals a striking demographic reality: a substantial portion of the population is under 30. Specifically, around 64% of Pakistan’s 241.5 million people are considered youth. This demographic dividend presents both a unique advantage and a formidable challenge for the nation. Leveraging this youthful energy and ambition is crucial for Pakistan’s socio-economic development.
Growth and Development
To realize the full potential of its youth, Pakistan needs to invest in diverse platforms that cater to education, entrepreneurship, digital skills, and civic engagement.
Education and Skill Development Education is the cornerstone of youth development. The government and private sector must collaborate to enhance the quality of education at all levels. Vocational training centers and technical institutes should be expanded to equip young people with practical skills that meet market demands. Initiatives like the Kamyab Jawan Program are steps in the right direction, offering scholarships, skill development opportunities, and internships.
Digital Platforms and Innovation The digital revolution offers unprecedented opportunities for Pakistani youth. With increasing internet penetration and smartphone usage, young Pakistanis are more connected than ever. Platforms like DigiSkills.pk and the National Incubation Centers provide training in digital skills, entrepreneurship, and innovation. These platforms are crucial for fostering a culture of startups and technological advancement.
Entrepreneurship and Economic Empowerment Encouraging entrepreneurship is vital for economic growth and job creation. Youth-led startups can drive innovation and provide solutions to local challenges. The State Bank of Pakistan’s youth entrepreneurship schemes and microfinance initiatives aim to provide financial support to young entrepreneurs. Additionally, incubators and accelerators across the country offer mentorship and resources to budding entrepreneurs.
Civic Engagement and Leadership Youth engagement in civic activities is essential for fostering responsible citizenship and leadership. Initiatives like the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme and various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are working to engage young people in community service, governance, and policy-making processes. These platforms empower youth to contribute to national development and social change.
Challenges to Address
While the potential is immense, several challenges need to be addressed to fully harness the power of Pakistani youth:
- Quality of Education: Ensuring access to quality education, especially in rural areas, remains a significant challenge.
- Unemployment: High unemployment rates among educated youth highlight the need for more job creation and skill development initiatives.
- Gender Disparity: Gender inequality continues to impede the full participation of young women in economic and social activities.
- Digital Divide: Bridging the digital divide is crucial to ensure that all young people have access to the opportunities offered by the digital economy.
International Youth Day is a time to celebrate the energy, creativity, and potential of Pakistani youth. The country’s demographic advantage can be a powerful engine for growth and development if harnessed effectively. By investing in education, digital skills, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement, Pakistan can empower its youth to become leaders of tomorrow, driving the nation towards a prosperous and sustainable future. The journey ahead is challenging, but with the right platforms and support, the promise of Pakistan’s youth can be fully realized.
