According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), approximately 64 per cent of Pakistan’s population is under the age of 30, while an estimated 65-70 million people fall within the 15-29 age group (UNFPA, 2023). This large youth population provides Pakistan with a unique opportunity to accelerate economic growth, increase innovation, and improve global competitiveness. However, if these young people remain unemployed or underemployed, they could instead contribute to rising poverty, social instability, and increased migration.

Despite their enormous potential, Pakistani youth face numerous challenges. The most pressing issue is unemployment and underemployment. Every year, hundreds of thousands of graduates enter the labour market, yet the economy fails to generate sufficient quality jobs. Many graduates also discover that their academic qualifications do not match employers’ expectations. Consequently, even highly educated individuals often struggle to secure suitable employment (World Bank, 2025).

Every year, hundreds of thousands of graduates enter the labour market, yet the economy fails to generate sufficient quality jobs.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of graduates enter the labour market, yet the economy fails to generate sufficient quality jobs.

Several structural factors contribute to youth unemployment in Pakistan. Economic growth has remained inconsistent, limiting industrial expansion and private-sector investment. Political uncertainty, inflation, energy shortages, and inadequate investment in research and innovation further discourage job creation. Moreover, Pakistan’s education system continues to emphasise theoretical knowledge rather than practical and market-oriented skills. Weak collaboration between universities and industries leaves many graduates unprepared for the rapidly evolving demands of the labour market (International Labour Organisation [ILO], 2024).

Another challenge is the changing aspirations of young Pakistanis. Previous generations often viewed government........

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