The Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment reported an astounding 200% increase in the number of migrated Pakistanis in 2022 compared to the year before. Undoubtedly, Pakistanis have been facing numerous hardships in recent times. The discussions on social platforms, for example, reflect the despair and anguish encapsulating many lives. The numbers obviously beg to label the future of our national youth as bleak. Is
that true? It remains to be seen.
Pakistan’s disheartening per capita income continues to deepen its economic abyss. The country’s problems must, however, be viewed from a macro-to-micro perspective in order to effectively address the current situation. A ray of hope appears when contrasting the current situation with the historical upheavals that Pakistan has triumphantly survived.
Although it had a glaring set of challenges, Pakistan managed to get through a maze of challenges after independence. It has weathered wars, struggled with low literacy rates, and grappled with limited information dissemination channels. Infrastructure problems have impeded development in every sector. Throughout this journey, on the whole, the nation has continuously faced difficulties in harnessing its human and natural resources, mostly because the mechanisms to instill personal responsibility in citizens were insufficient.
Despite the challenges, Pakistan has always had an immense reservoir of human and natural potential. The national citizen’s intellect and inventiveness is evident in all spheres of life, and they hold the potential to widen the range of contributions to our nation and the entire world. The rise of start-up businesses in Pakistan are a good illustration of this point.
But given the current situation, is it reasonable for our youth to lose hope in Pakistan’s future? Today, Pakistan’s literacy rate, though lagging far behind that of developed and developing countries, has undeniably achieved a much higher level than when it first began (just 12%). Is it fair to describe the future as bleak now when the media, in all its forms, offers a wealth of information to stand your ground amid shifting social and economic landscapes?
There is no getting around the fact that obstacles loom over Pakistan. We cannot help but have a few nagging concerns. For instance: (1) Is there any possibility of securing the future? (2) Can we guard against a bleak economic future for ourselves, our families, and the nation? (3) Would we ever be able to paint Pakistan’s image in fresh and bright light again at the national and international levels? Regardless of how miserable today is, the answer to each of these questions somehow encompasses the word yes.
In order to overcome the challenges faced by Pakistan, it is crucial for us to acknowledge the aspects that lie within our control. As responsible citizens, we possess the power to take individual accountability for the difficult circumstances that surround us. Enhancing a nation’s infrastructure, which is an essential element for the progress of every sector, cannot be achieved overnight. However, each individual has the capability to make incremental contributions towards the betterment of our nation despite the cloudy uncertainty, ultimately leading to a positive impact on the overall situation.
In Pakistan, for instance, the freelance market is witnessing a remarkable expansion, offering a slice of the sky to both men and women. However, for those venturing into this realm for the first time, the initial journey can be daunting. There are opportunities, but they are not particularly welcoming for someone just beginning their journey. As the country grapples with a rapidly changing economic landscape, many Pakistanis seek quick sources of income. Consequently, the long-term commitment required in freelancing often leads newbies to despair.
Nevertheless, it is crucial to consider the broader perspective. If young individuals find it challenging to secure work even after honing their skills and entering the freelance market, it is a possible sign and an opportunity for upskilling. Pakistani freelancers have already showcased their potential on the global stage. However, criticisms from some foreign clients regarding a lack of professionalism from Pakistan’s side question the credibility of us all, especially newcomers.
Emphasizing professional development becomes essential for empowering young minds to demonstrate their abilities effectively. It is imperative to remember that success is not a race but a journey that requires learning the ropes first. By honing their skills, newbies can not only improve themselves but also equip themselves to tackle industry challenges with confidence.
When people pass through significant obstacles and earn a ton of remittances to the country along the way, the desire to share information about the road to financial independence grows stronger. The Pakistani nation, thus, as a whole, benefits from freelance endeavours.
In the midst of mounting challenges faced by the youth today in Pakistan, the national news consistently fails to uplift their morale. It is evident that the prevailing decay can be attributed to a multitude of crises, including
hunger, financial instability, currency devaluation, water and energy shortages, etc.
When you peek to see if there is light at the end of the tunnel, you will discover that Pakistan is also experiencing depression ebbs that can sometimes prevent one from seeing the end. The future, however, is not as bleak as it seems, as there are practical ways to create a support network for oneself through freelance opportunities.
The freelance culture in Pakistan is thriving and expanding, which is opening up opportunities for more employment. Acknowledging the potential of freelancing, the federal government has initiated programs aimed at fostering its growth and development. The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications’ Digiskills training program, which offers a comprehensive package of up to 15 advanced skills, is an excellent example of a successful initiative.
Instead of wallowing in tainted images of life, youth must broaden their perspective with the hope that shines through this sector. Equipped with the right skills, today’s young minds have the potential to reap the benefits of this field tomorrow, if not today. Freelance work is, in a nutshell, a huge bright spot in the dark clouds of Pakistan’s unstable economic conditions.
