Debt-ridden Pakistan’s growth story is unraveling, with youth unemployment at the epicenter. A pivotal report warns that the demographic advantage is flipping into a liability, driven by yawning skills gaps that choke economic progress and ignite tensions.
Producing 800,000 university alumni yearly sounds impressive—until you see their struggles in key markets like Japan and South Korea. Skills demanded there—certified tech prowess, multilingual abilities, global certifications—simply aren’t met by Pakistani output.
Backed by parliamentary scrutiny, the analysis flags degree irrelevance abroad, subpar vocational setups, and shaky recognition. The fix? Industry-aligned curricula, beefed-up training in exportable skills. Universities can’t afford detachment from job markets anymore.
At 1.9% GDP on education, Pakistan lags badly; 26.2 million kids miss schooling. Programs neglect digital savvy, analytical skills, practical drills—leaving grads unready for disruption. Data shows 64% hit skills walls in hiring, youth joblessness at 31%.
Underfunded R&D, mismatched higher ed, and faculty shortfalls deepen the crisis. Structural shifts are non-negotiable to harness youth power, stabilize society, and reboot the economy.