By: Rimsha Sarwar
The recent global economic crises have intensified youth unemployment rates worldwide, impacting both developed and developing countries. In many places, young people face harsh labor market conditions. According to statistics from 2013, 70 million young people were unemployed worldwide. Pakistan, with the fifth-largest youth population globally, has a majority of its citizens under the age of 30. A recent survey reveals that youth unemployment in Pakistan reached 2.77 million in 2020-2021, a figure projected to surpass 3 million in 2022-2023.
Pakistani youth face a dual challenge: as young people struggle to find suitable jobs, many experience heightened levels of depression and anxiety. Rising inflation in Pakistan makes it difficult for families to meet basic needs, and job opportunities are shrinking amid economic and political instability. With businesses closing or relocating, even higher education doesn’t guarantee employment. Consequently, many young Pakistanis feel compelled to seek opportunities abroad for a better future.
Cultural expectations further intensify the pressure. When young graduates cannot secure desirable jobs, depression and, in some cases, suicidal thoughts become common. Multiple factors contribute to youth unemployment in Pakistan, including limited access to quality education, unstable economic and political conditions, inadequate investment, and unequal resource distribution.
To harness the untapped potential of Pakistani youth, a holistic approach is essential. The government should prioritize economic growth and job creation by supporting startups, expanding key industries, and implementing educational reforms that focus on practical skills and technical training aligned with market demands. Encouraging entrepreneurship among young people and offering funding for new businesses could open additional avenues for employment. Furthermore, there’s a pressing need for mental health services, counseling, and support programs in educational institutions and workplaces. Families and communities should also provide emotional support to youth, reducing the pressure to achieve immediate job success.
Firstly, the government must focus on boosting economic growth and job creation by prioritizing industries with high potential for job creation, such as information technology, renewable energy, healthcare, and manufacturing. Investing in these sectors can generate a large number of job opportunities, while policies aimed at attracting foreign investment can further stimulate the economy and open doors for young people.
Another key strategy is to support startups and small businesses. Encouraging entrepreneurship among youth by providing resources, mentorship, and funding can empower young Pakistanis to create their own employment opportunities. This not only reduces dependence on traditional jobs but also fosters innovation and economic resilience.
Educational reforms are equally critical. Schools and universities should prioritize practical skills, technical training, and career guidance to better align with market demands. Integrating programs that develop digital skills, critical thinking, and hands-on experience can increase employability and better prepare graduates for the job market.
Furthermore, mental health support must be emphasized. The government, educational institutions, and workplaces need to establish counseling and support services to help young people manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues related to employment challenges. Accessible mental health services can play a significant role in reducing the negative psychological impact of job insecurity.
Lastly, community and family support is vital in easing the pressure young people face. Families should be encouraged to offer emotional support, focusing less on immediate job success and more on personal development and resilience. Community programs can also create a supportive environment, helping young people navigate their career paths without feeling isolated or overwhelmed.
By implementing these solutions, Pakistan can create an environment where young people are better equipped to contribute to the nation’s growth, while also fostering their personal and professional well-being.
The writer can be reached at [email protected]
