In today’s rapidly evolving job market, Pakistani students face unprecedented challenges in choosing and preparing for careers that align with their aptitudes and the country’s economic needs. Yet, the school curriculum offers little guidance beyond rote academic instruction. Without structured career counselling, many bright young minds are left unaware of vast opportunities, or potential pitfalls, that await them upon graduation.
Career counselling is more than simply matching personalities to professions; it empowers students with self awareness, informed decision making, and resilience. In Pakistan, however, the concept remains largely confined to private institutions or urban centres, leaving most public school students without this crucial support.
The government and school boards must therefore prioritise the integration of career counselling through teacher training workshops, local university partnerships, and virtual counselling for remote areas. Additionally, engaging alumni and industry professionals in seminars would offer real world insights. By guiding students early, we can reduce dropout rates, prevent costly career changes later in life, and better match the skills of our youth to the needs of emerging sectors, technology, renewable energy, healthcare, and beyond.
Zooha Indhar
Lahore
