Youth Empowerment in Pakistan: Challenges and Remedies

A powerful face of energy and potential waiting to be harnessed in the vibrant tapestry of Pakistan. Pakistan is one of the youngest nations, with 60% of its population under 30. According to studies, the burgeoning youth population will grow even more by 2035. Youth serves as the counterweight of any nation. They can prove to be the driving force of the country as well as a devastating force if they are not in the right direction. In Pakistan, due to political instability, youth suffer a lot.

A massive number of youth who have to serve the country in the future are leaving the country. 700,000 young people left Pakistan last year. They are hopeless. They are fed up with this corrupt system. Many young lives were lost at sea while illegally attempting to escape abroad. A huge amount of students are graduating every year. But the question of their employment is still unanswered. They are wandering here and there holding degrees in their hands in search of a good job.

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The drug ratio in youth has reached a drastic level. They are becoming violent and involved in street crimes. The suicide rate among the youth is also increasing, due to depression caused by unemployment. On the other hand, university students are also facing many problems. Despite taking massive semester fees, universities are not working on student growth. They just take midterm and final-term exams and hold the degrees in their hands. After spending millions on education, students receive degrees that are often useless.

One of the biggest obstacles is the socio-economic challenges that trap individuals in a cycle of poverty. They have limited access to education and then further job opportunities. The political landscape of Pakistan is centered across a few people. Young people are alienated from the decision-making process. There are not many platforms for youth engagement where they can advocate for their rights and interests. Insufficient mental health support can lead to feelings of low self-esteem and hopelessness, due to which they lose all their motivation.

The outdated education system remains a major obstacle to the personal development of our youth. Pakistan’s education system is associated with problems of overage enrolment, lack of technical training, and the disconnection between curriculum and industry requirements.   It does not focus on skills and personality development, due to which young generations remain unable to meet the demands of a competitive job market. The country’s education system is based on traditional means of giving education that emphasize cramming and neglect the learning outcomes.

In countries like Germany, Japan, or China, students join the vocational training program just after high school. Many graduates in Pakistan are equipped with theoretical knowledge but lack practical skills. Vocational education enables the workforce to meet job market demands. In contrast, the 3800 TEVTA institutes in Pakistan have 200000 enrolled students. While just 4 students are formally part of vocational training out of 1000 enrolled students.

There is a serious lack of entrepreneurship culture in Pakistan. Startups are the biggest source of job employment. In Pakistan, 90% of startups fail due to the holistic vision of entrepreneurs, inadequate resources, and a lack of market-based research. The political instability in Pakistan, frequent changes in government, and periods of political unrest create uncertainty for businesses and investors. This lack of stability discourages investors, which is crucial for economic expansion and job creation. Fiscal deficits, inflation, and weak currency have consistently hindered industrial and economic growth.

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One of the best methods of creating employment opportunities is by encouraging startup culture and industrialization. To achieve this goal, first align curricula with entrepreneurial knowledge and skills. Pakistan should take measures to improve the education system. The government should promote research culture in universities. There is a dire need to bridge theoretical knowledge and practical experiences through vocational education.

Fostering safe spaces for youth engagement and expression is vital for empowering young individuals to share their thoughts and ideas without fear of judgment. In Pakistan, where cultural and social pressures often stifle youth voices, establishing inclusive platforms such as community forums, art exhibitions, and online workshops can enable young people to connect, collaborate, and lead initiatives.

Organizations should promote youth involvement through awareness campaigns, resource allocation for youth-led projects, and mentorship programs linking youth with professionals. Scholarships should be launched that offer financial support to talented and underprivileged students. Digital learning platforms should be expanded to reach remote areas and cater to diverse learning styles. Additionally, establish a structured internship program that aligns with educational curricula. This can be achieved by fostering partnerships between educational institutions and the private sector. It will create pathways for practical experience and employment.

Youth empowerment is the key to unlocking Pakistan’s potential as a prosperous and progressive nation. Pakistan’s growing youth population presents immense potential for progress and development as a significant portion enters adulthood. If Pakistan prioritizes skill-based education, fosters entrepreneurship, and includes youth in decision-making, it can create a future where young people drive national growth rather than seek opportunities abroad.