Pakistan, currently home to 241.5 million people, has been recognized as the 27th fastest-growing population globally, with an annual growth rate of 2.55%. The findings from the recent 7th Population Census offer critical insights into Pakistan’s demographic landscape, revealing a notably youthful population where 79% are under 40 years old. This demographic profile presents both opportunities and challenges for the nation’s future trajectory.
Ahsan Iqbal, the Federal Minister for Planning, highlighted significant issues derived from the census data. A staggering 39.5% illiteracy rate and 36% of children not attending school underscore the urgent need for educational reform. These statistics underscore the pressing need for comprehensive improvements in Pakistan’s education sector.
The census also unveiled discrepancies in population figures for Karachi, the country’s largest city, raising concerns about data accuracy. Moreover, there was a slight decrease in the percentage of the population identifying as Muslim, reflecting demographic shifts.
Pakistan’s overall literacy rate currently stands at 60.5%, with noticeable gender disparities favoring men. This inequality emphasizes the necessity for targeted policies aimed at enhancing educational access and gender equality across the country.
In response to these findings, Pakistan must prioritize the development of robust educational and economic strategies. Addressing high illiteracy rates, expanding educational access, and closing gender gaps in education are crucial steps toward securing a prosperous future for Pakistan’s burgeoning population. These efforts will be pivotal in harnessing the potential of the country’s youthful demographic and overcoming current socio-economic challenges.