ISLAMABAD (Sapeher Times)The growing unemployment rate among the youth of our country has reached a dangerously alarming level. Every year, a large number of educated and talented graduates complete their degrees with high hopes of contributing to society, yet they struggle to find meaningful employment.

ISLAMABAD (Sapeher Times)The growing unemployment rate among the youth of our country has reached a dangerously alarming level. Every year, a large number of educated and talented graduates complete their degrees with high hopes of contributing to society, yet they struggle to find meaningful employment. This rising trend is not only discouraging for individuals but also poses a serious threat to national progress and economic stability. One of the major factors behind this crisis is the lack of practical and hands-on experience. Most students graduate with theoretical knowledge but are unprepared for real-world demands. Furthermore, there is a clear gap between the current academic curriculum and the ever-evolving needs of the job market. Many industries now seek specialized skills, technological literacy, and innovative thinking—qualities that are often not emphasized in conventional classrooms. In addition, the limited availability of job opportunities, especially in smaller cities, forces many talented youth to remain unemployed or settle for positions far below their qualifications. The absence of career counselling, inadequate professional guidance, and insufficient government initiatives further worsen the situation. To effectively address this challenge, it is essential for the government, private sector, and educational institutions to work collectively. Introducing comprehensive vocational training programmes, modern skill-development courses, and structured internship placements can significantly equip students for future careers. The government must also prioritize job creation by promoting industries, supporting small startups, and offering financial assistance or tax incentives to young entrepreneurs. Establishing innovation hubs, entrepreneurship centres, and technology parks can encourage creativity and generate thousands of new job opportunities. Investing in the youth is not merely an option—it is a necessity. The youth represent the backbone of the nation, and empowering them means securing a brighter, more prosperous future for the country. I sincerely urge the concerned authorities to take immediate, practical, and well-planned measures to tackle unemployment and uplift our young generation with better opportunities and stronger support systems.Moreover, there is an urgent need to strengthen public–private partnerships to create sustainable employment pathways for young people. Industries should be encouraged to collaborate with training institutions to design programmes that meet current labour market requirements. By integrating industry feedback into educational planning, graduates will be better prepared to meet professional standards and expectations.
Another area requiring attention is the promotion of remote and freelance work opportunities. In today’s digital age, countless global platforms offer avenues for online employment, yet many young people remain unaware of these possibilities. Providing training in digital freelancing, online business management, and remote communication tools can open new doors to financial independence and reduce the pressure on traditional job sectors.
Furthermore, addressing regional disparities is essential to ensuring equal opportunities for all. Youth in rural and underdeveloped areas often face greater challenges due to a lack of infrastructure, limited access to quality education, and minimal exposure to modern technologies. Establishing training centres, improving connectivity, and promoting localized economic activities can help reduce these inequalities and bring balanced progress across the nation.
Lastly, it is important to encourage a culture of innovation and creativity among students from an early age. Schools and universities should provide platforms for idea competitions, research projects, and entrepreneurship challenges. By nurturing creativity and critical thinking, young people can develop the confidence and competence needed to become job creators instead of job seekers, ultimately contributing to the nation’s long-term economic stability.