Pakistan stands at a crossroads. With nearly two-thirds of its population under the age of 30, the country holds one of the largest youth populations in the world. This ‘youth bulge’ can either become a blessing that drives national progress or a burden that deepens unemployment and unrest. The deciding factor will be how seriously the nation invests in education and skill development.
Despite this demographic advantage, Pakistan spends less than 2% of its GDP on education, one of the lowest in the region. Public schools often lack teachers, infrastructure and even basic facilities. Universities produce graduates, but many leave without the skills demanded by today’s job market. This creates a troubling paradox: millions of young people eager to work while industries report a shortage of skilled labor.
Education, however, is not only about jobs. It builds informed citizens, encourages tolerance and sparks innovation. Nations that once faced poverty, from South Korea to Malaysia, transformed through long-term investment in education. Pakistan cannot hope to break cycles of poverty, extremism or instability without giving its youth proper opportunities to learn and grow.
The way forward is clear. More resources must be directed to education, technical and vocational training should be expanded, technology can be used to bridge gaps in rural areas and public-private partnerships should be encouraged. If Pakistan chooses to invest in its youth today, it will gain a generation capable of innovation and leadership. If it fails, the same youth could fuel instability and despair.
Aairaf Ali
Sukkur
