KARACHI:
Despite having an abundance of natural resources, Balochistan is the most deprived province of Pakistan. Even though each year, many graduates emerge in the province, they seldom get an opportunity to fully utilise their skills and knowledge. Across Balochistan, the youth are compelled to take odd jobs for a living or seek employment elsewhere in the country. However, many cannot afford to migrate and those who do often face prejudices during the hiring process.
Last year, the Makran division topped Balochistan in literacy rate and ranked 8th on the national level as per the 2017 census. Unfortunately, the majority of the students in the region are unable to undertake board exams and fail to gain employment after graduating. Many industries in the region have been forced to close due to the electricity crisis, which has further reduced employment opportunities.
The absence of opportunities has raised despair and hopelessness among the youth compelling them to take drastic measures such as launching protests, etc. I urge the federal and provincial governments to pay attention to the issue and improve opportunities for the youth of Balochistan. Industries must be encouraged to resume operations in different regions and prioritise hiring local graduates to create more employment and investment opportunities.
Noreen Anwar
Turbat
Published in The Express Tribune, January 6th, 2023.
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