Youth and Employment Opportunities in Pakistan. Challenges, Trends, and the Way Forward By: Muhammad Umer.
Contents. Introduction Youth Demographics Current Employment Situation Major Sectors Employing Youth Challenges Faced by Youth Education and Skill Development Government Initiatives Private Sector & Startups Freelancing and Digital Economy Youth Unemployment Trend Causes of Youth Unemployment Opportunities Ahead Conclusion.
Introduction. Pakistan has one of the largest youth populations in the world, with over 60% under age 30. Youth plays a vital role in shaping the country’s economic and social development Despite their potential, many young people face challenges in finding decent employment..
Youth Demographics. 64% of population under 30 Rural majority Literacy rate ~70% Need to align education with jobs.
Current Employment Situation. Youth unemployment rate: 11%–13% High among women Informal sector dominates Low job security.
Major Sectors Employing Youth. Agriculture – 38% Services – 37% Manufacturing – 20% Emerging: IT, freelancing – 5%.
Challenges Faced by Youth. Lack of jobs Skill mismatch Limited guidance Gender inequality Rural disadvantage.
Education and Skill Development. Focus on vocational training Online learning and universities Entrepreneurship and innovation education Soft skills development NAVTTC, TEVTA programs.
Government Initiatives YES Scheme Internship programs Kamyab Jawan Program DigiSkills.
Private Sector & Startups. Growth of tech startups Incubation centers Venture capital support.
Freelancing and Digital Economy. Pakistan among top freelancing nations Platforms: Fiverr , Upwork Income growth potential.
Youth Unemployment Trend (2015-25). Unemployment Rate (%) 2015 2017 2019 2021 2023 2025 (est.) 10.5 11.2 10.8 12 12.5 13.
11/06/2025. Muhammad Umer. 13. Main problems. Lack of skill and training.
Opportunities Ahead. Renewable energy & green jobs Tourism & services growth E-commerce IT exports.
Conclusion Strengthen technical education Public-private partnerships Youth mentorship Youth are the backbone of Pakistan’s economy. Promote entrepreneur-ship Investing in youth means investing in the nation's future..