'Youth bulge needs harnessing'

Policymakers, parliamentarians, development practitioners and civil society experts reached consensus in a dialogue that Punjab's demographic advantage could drive inclusive growth only through coordinated action in education, health, skill development and employment generation.

The Data for Development (D4D) policy dialogue on 'Harnessing the demographic dividend: forging an action plan for Punjab' was organised by UNFPA, Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) and

Forman Christian College University with support from the government of the Netherlands. According to a statement, its objective was to gather input on UNFPA's proposed action plan.

It pointed out that nearly 60 per cent of Pakistan's population is under the age of 30, offering a window to boost economic prosperity. Experts emphasised that without decisive action, the demographic window - expected to close by 2050 - could transform into a missed chance for national progress and sustainable development.

Planning and Development Board Chief Economist Masood Anwar identified population growth, low literacy, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure as core challenges. "More schools, colleges, universities, and jobs are urgently needed," he stressed.

MPA Mahwish Sultana cited initiatives and legislation for youth and women's empowerment.