Pathways to Pakistan’s Prosperity: Why 2047 Must Be Different

Pakistan is on the path to celebrating 100 years of independence in 2047. But the real question is: What kind of Pakistan will we be living in? Are we throwing a grand celebration or just dusting off the same old problems?

With one of the youngest populations in the world (UN Population Fund Report 2017), that’s not just a stat; that’s pure, raw, untamed potential our country holds. The youth today are not just dreamers; they are doers, ready to reshape Pakistan’s future. But for that to happen, we need change—and we need it now. Here’s what the youth of Pakistan demand for a better, stronger, and more developed nation, and to change the prolonged label of an underdeveloped country into a developed one by 2047.

It is heartbreaking that around 3.3 million Pakistani children are deprived of their basic rights. At the age when they should be carrying a schoolbag, they are heavily holding a shovel. As a citizen, I want this issue to be addressed by our government. In Pakistan, adolescent lives can be improved via population control and birth registration because their existing identity is going to give them a share in the economy. Thus, they’ll not be forced or exploited mentally, physically, or psychologically. Another high-stakes reason is that early marriages have a high rate of bringing children into situations considered child exploitation.

Moreover, the root causes of child labor—poverty, lack of education, and unregistered births—must be tackled systematically. When children are not officially recognized by the state, they remain invisible to policies that could protect them.

Similarly, the safety and rights of women must be prioritized. No, I’m not bringing up the “Aurat March” or any other extremist chant that provokes our youngsters to the core. Instead, I am demanding a safe place for a woman, where she has the freedom of active participation in her choices according to her will, doesn’t have to compromise her safety while undergoing recruitment and promotion processes, won’t face verbal and physical abuse, and can raise her voice whenever she feels humiliation or insecurity.

If women are deprived of their fundamental rights, our generations will suffer. Since they will bring up generations, they will hand over what they have. It means we must equip them with what we want for the upcoming generation. Their representation in parliament should be increased so that their concerns can be raised and addressed by government officials.

Meanwhile, the rising rates of divorce and suicide highlight deeper societal crises. Pakistan has always been a country with the lowest divorce ratio, but the pace at which social clutter is making its way into society is alarming. Domestic violence, extramarital affairs, Western influence, lack of tolerance, and unemployment are pushing many marriages to their breaking points. Similarly, the rise in suicide reflects the intensity of frustration, financial crises, and hopelessness. Temporary measures, such as restricting access to high-risk areas like Netty Jetty bridge, won’t be a solution.

To address these issues, the government must take a multi-pronged approach, including providing financial support, employment opportunities, accessible mental health services, and campaigns promoting tolerance and communication in marriage.

Furthermore, entrepreneurship holds the power to transform economies and uplift individuals, especially in a country like Pakistan, where cottage and small industries have long served as a backbone for employment. However, persistent challenges such as inadequate funding, poor standardization, and inconsistent labor costs stifle this potential. Subsidies and financial incentives tailored for entrepreneurs can be game-changers, along with training hubs and mentorship programs.

Additionally, the gap between rural and urban areas is a growing concern. According to the World Bank, 62.56% of the population lives in rural areas, while only 37.17% live in cities. This uneven distribution overwhelms urban infrastructure and leaves rural migrants struggling for jobs and housing. The government must invest in rural development—improving schools, healthcare, and job opportunities—while strengthening urban planning to accommodate growth.

Beyond infrastructure, Pakistan must move toward self-sufficiency. The responsibility of uplifting a nation lies primarily with its government, not NGOs. The cycle of dependency can be broken by equipping people with skills and opportunities. Vocational training centers, skill development programs, and entrepreneurship initiatives are essential for self-reliance.

Moreover, attracting investors is crucial for economic growth. With an open border, Pakistan has the potential to become a hub for international investment in technology, manufacturing, agriculture, and renewable energy. The synergy between local talent and foreign investment can lead to groundbreaking innovations.

Yet, despite this potential, many young people are leaving Pakistan due to uncertainty and lack of opportunities. The government must counter this brain drain by investing in education, entrepreneurship, and stable governance.

At the same time, Pakistan faces a silent crisis: drug addiction. With over 800,000 heroin users and 44 tonnes consumed annually, urgent action is needed. Strict measures in schools, awareness campaigns, rehabilitation centers, and crackdowns on traffickers are necessary to combat this epidemic.

Similarly, extremism thrives in environments of illiteracy, unemployment, and political chaos. Community centers, mentorship programs, and safe spaces for innovation can redirect youth energy toward progress rather than violence.

Corruption, however, remains a major obstacle. From healthcare to politics, it weakens institutions. Fiscal policies ensuring accurate taxation, accountability, and merit-based promotions are essential to break this cycle.

The unemployment-inflation crisis further exacerbates inequality. While the upper class thrives, the lower class struggles for basic necessities. The government must align education with industry needs, create jobs, and provide skill-based training to utilize the capable workforce.

Accountability at the state level is equally critical. Every year, budgets are allocated for development, yet roads, hospitals, and schools remain underfunded. The youth demand strict financial audits, transparency, and legal consequences for corruption.

Sports, another neglected sector, reflects untapped potential. Pakistan exports sports goods but lacks medals due to poor funding and facilities. Athletes like Arshad Nadeem prove talent exists—systemic support is what’s missing.

Agriculture, Pakistan’s economic backbone, remains underutilized due to feudal systems. Modern inputs, high-yield seeds, and credit resources can boost production and reduce unemployment.

Meanwhile, data science presents a new frontier. Pakistan can become a hub for innovation if the government invests in research centers and skill development.

Education, however, remains a fundamental challenge. A stagnant curriculum, lack of career counseling, and corruption in degree acquisition hinder progress. Early competency-based training can unlock youth potential.

Yet, the quota system stifles meritocracy. High-ranking positions are filled behind closed doors, discouraging deserving candidates. This must change to harness the “youth bulge.”

Access to opportunities is another barrier. With half the population under 24, systemic hurdles must be removed to unlock their potential.

Political instability also disrupts progress. Each new administration halts previous programs, wasting resources. Laws ensuring continuity beyond politics are needed.

Finally, peace narratives must be promoted through conflict resolution seminars and tolerance campaigns. Social cohesion is vital for progress.

In conclusion, the youth are Pakistan’s greatest asset—or its biggest liability. How we mold them will determine whether Pakistan soars or stumbles. With the right opportunities, they can sustain Pakistan’s global rankings in military strength, happiness, and intelligence. The time to act is now—before their potential is wasted.