Pakistan's Youth Crisis: A Call for Action

Pakistan is at a crossroads, facing a unique demographic situation that could either propel it towards economic prosperity or plunge it deeper into social challenges. According to the UN's latest World Population Prospects study, released in 2024, Pakistan's population is projected to soar from 247.5 million in 2023 to a staggering 511 million by 2100. This growth includes around 140 million individuals under the age of 25, making it one of the largest youth populations in the world. However, while many countries are experiencing a decline in their youth demographics, Pakistan's youth population is expected to increase by 15% by 2100, reaching 165.8 million. This situation presents a potential demographic dividend, which refers to the economic growth that can occur when a country has a larger proportion of working-age individuals compared to dependents.

Despite this promising outlook, Pakistan has not been able to fully harness the potential of its youth. The Global Youth Development Index (YDI) Report of 2023 ranks Pakistan 162nd out of 183 countries, highlighting the challenges faced by the youth in the country. The national YDI, which evaluates youth performance across four dimensions, paints an even bleaker picture. The inability to capitalize on the youth bulge is evident in the rising levels of crime, violence, and political radicalization, as well as the alarming trend of young people seeking better opportunities abroad.

Several factors contribute to this troubling scenario. A lack of comprehensive youth policies and frameworks, low enrollment rates in educational institutions, and poor quality of education are just a few of the issues at play. Additionally, gender and class disparities, a lack of political engagement, and a stagnant economy that cannot absorb the growing workforce further complicate the situation. The National Youth Policy (NYP), which was initiated in 1989 and approved in 2009, has seen little effective implementation, with many provinces still lacking formal youth policies.

Moreover, the education system in Pakistan is in dire straits. The 2023 Population and Housing Census reveals that there are 25.61 million out-of-school children in the country. The World Bank reports that Pakistan has the second-highest rate of learning poverty, with only 23% of 10-year-olds able to read and understand age-appropriate texts. This is significantly lower than neighboring countries like India and Bangladesh. Without a solid educational foundation, the youth cannot contribute effectively to the economy, which is crucial for realizing the potential productivity gains.

Furthermore, Pakistan's investment rate is alarmingly low at just 13.1%, the lowest in 64 years. This consumption-driven economy struggles to provide jobs for the 0.8 million youth entering the workforce each year. The persistent structural weaknesses not only exacerbate unemployment but also stifle the aspirations of young people, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and inequality.

While Pakistan's demographic situation presents a unique opportunity for economic growth, the country must address the myriad challenges facing its youth. Comprehensive policies, quality education, and a commitment to creating job opportunities are essential for transforming this potential into reality. If the government and society at large can come together to invest in the youth, Pakistan could very well turn its "butterflies without a garden" into a flourishing garden of opportunities, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.