What does it truly mean for a country to be developed? For years, the focus was on growing economies - more factories, more highways, bigger GDP. But as many have come to realise, true development is not just about numbers; it's about people. It's about improving lives, especially for those who are often left behind. Income inequality is a persistent issue in Pakistan, influencing economic growth, social stability and poverty reduction efforts.

Pakistan has struggled with inequality due to economic imbalances, lack of policy implementation and structural inefficiencies. Disparities exist between urban and rural populations, different income groups and various sectors of the economy. Over time, economic growth has not been evenly distributed, leading to widening gaps between the rich and poor.

One of the primary causes of inequality is unequal access to education and skills development. The education system remains highly inadequate, with low-income groups having limited access to quality education and vocational training, which restricts their........

© The Express Tribune