Daily Times

One of Pakistan’s most pressing challenges is its rapidly growing population, with an alarming average of 19,300 children born daily, translating to an annual population growth rate of 2.2 percent – one of the highest in South Asia.

The country’s current population exceeds 240 million, straining already limited resources such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Despite these stark realities, the government has yet to prioritize effective family planning or population control policies. This inaction is troubling, as unchecked population growth threatens to exacerbate poverty, unemployment, and environmental degradation. Projections suggest that, if the trend continues, Pakistan’s population could surpass 300 million by 2050, putting immense pressure on an already fragile economy.

Controlling population growth is undoubtedly a challenging task for the government, especially in a country like Pakistan, where socio-cultural norms and limited awareness of family planning pose significant barriers. However, while managing population growth is crucial, the government can also adopt strategies to transform this large population into a valuable asset. But the question is how Pakistan can convert its population into assets.

Several nations have succeeded in converting their sizable populations into useful resources, even though population increase is sometimes perceived as a burden. Pakistan can turn its people into a strong force for economic growth and development by emphasizing innovation, education, and wise policies.

Pakistan must prioritize a shift from traditional education systems to skill-based learning and vocational training to meet the demands of a modern economy.

One of the primary ways that overpopulated countries have turned their large populations into assets is through significant investments in education. South Korea, once a war-torn nation with a population explosion, now stands as a global leader in technology and innovation. The country’s strategy of prioritizing education and vocational training helped it leapfrog from a low-income economy to a high-tech powerhouse. By 2019, South Korea had the highest proportion of 25-34-year-olds with tertiary education among Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries, contributing significantly to the nation’s economic success.

India, with a population of over 1.4 billion, faces similar challenges of overpopulation but has managed to leverage its “youth dividend” into significant economic benefits. The country’s large, youthful population has fueled its growth in the IT and services sector, producing global tech giants such as Infosys, Wipro, and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). These companies have not only created jobs but have also enhanced India’s reputation on the global stage as a hub for technology, innovation, and outsourcing.

China, with its vast population, has successfully turned its demographic challenges into an opportunity. China’s economic rise, particularly over the past few decades, can be attributed to its strategic focus on human capital development. The government has heavily invested in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and research, creating an environment that fosters innovation. Furthermore, China’s shift from labour-intensive industries to a knowledge-based economy has allowed it to capitalize on its human resources.

Bangladesh is another example of a country with a dense population that has turned its demographic challenges into economic opportunities. The key to its success has been the empowerment of women, particularly in the textile and garment industries. Over the years, Bangladesh has become one of the largest exporters of textiles in the world, a sector that employs millions of women, giving them economic independence and lifting entire communities out of poverty.

Brazil, a country known for its vast population, faced similar challenges of urbanization. However, by promoting sustainable urban development, Brazil has managed to turn its cities into centres of innovation, culture, and economic growth. Urbanization in Brazil has driven the growth of sectors such as construction, technology, and services, while also contributing to the expansion of the middle class.

Pakistan must prioritize a shift from traditional education systems to skill-based learning and vocational training to meet the demands of a modern economy. Strengthening public-private partnerships for skill development and fostering lifelong learning environments are critical steps in this direction. Expanding access to higher education in technology, engineering, and entrepreneurship, alongside promoting certifications in fields like artificial intelligence, data science, and renewable energy, will equip the workforce with essential skills. A skilled workforce is not merely an asset; it is a driving force for innovation and economic growth.

With over 60 percent of Pakistan’s population under the age of 30, the country has a unique opportunity to harness the potential of its youth for economic transformation. Aligning education with global market demands, particularly in technology and innovation, is essential. Additionally, fostering entrepreneurship by providing access to capital, mentorship, and incubation hubs can empower young individuals to drive change. Implementing policies to retain talent and incentivize tech startups will further prevent brain drain. As evidenced by India’s success, equipping a youthful population with the right opportunities and skills can significantly contribute to national economic growth.

Pakistan can also draw inspiration from China’s approach by focusing on strategic investments in healthcare, infrastructure, and innovation. Ensuring a healthy workforce through increased healthcare investment and improving connectivity between urban and rural areas can enhance economic integration. Promoting research and development (R&D) through incentives for universities and private enterprises is vital, especially in manufacturing, technology, and agriculture. By prioritizing infrastructure and human capital development, Pakistan can create an environment conducive to sustained growth, replicating China’s impressive economic achievements.

Pakistan must take inspiration from countries that have successfully turned their large populations into economic growth drivers, adapting these examples to its unique context.

The writer is a PhD scholar and author of various books on international relations, criminology and gender studies. He can be reached at fastian.mentor@gmail.com