WATCHING the long-awaited finale of Pakistan Idol was a refreshing break from the country’s ongoing political turmoil and escalating regional tensions. It was a fascinating contest between half a dozen exceptionally talented young amateur artists from across Pakistan, selected from hundreds of contestants — many from the remotest corners — who had competed for nearly a year. I was completely hooked, and followed every episode on television.

What struck me most was the raw talent of these young performers — especially the girls from small towns, fiercely determined to prove themselves on the national stage. Hira Qaisar took the title of Pakistan Idol. A mother of three from Faisalabad who has never had any formal music training, she held the judges and audience spellbound with her mastery of both classical and popular singing. Hira was certainly exceptional; stars like her are born every season.

That brilliance is in stark contrast to the hopelessness and frustration that young people feel today. With few opportunities and rising unemployment, they are leaving the country — many by illegal means, risking their lives in the hope of a better future. Hundreds die on the way and still they keep trying. It is hard to imagine a worse outlook for a nation where roughly 64 per cent of the population is under 30.

Around four million people are added to the population every year, while 25m children are out of school, one of the highest numbers globally. Even among those enrolled, many can hardly read or write. The country is producing an ever-larger pool of undereducated, unskilled citizens. Youth unemployment is far higher........

© Dawn