ISLAMABAD, JUL 11 /DNA/ – Acting President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), Tahir Ayub, has called for a comprehensive national strategy to transform Pakistan’s rapidly growing population into a productive economic force through sustained investments in education, healthcare, skills development, entrepreneurship, and employment generation. He said that with prudent planning and human capital development, Pakistan’s youthful population can become the country’s greatest competitive advantage, driving industrial growth, innovation, exports, and long-term economic prosperity.
He expressed these views while talking to different delegations of business leaders here at the Chamber House on the occasion of World Population Day on Saturday, observing that the day serves as an important reminder of the need to strike a balance between population growth and sustainable economic development. He emphasized that the true strength of a nation lies not merely in the size of its population, but in its ability to educate, empower, and productively engage its people in nation-building.
Tahir Ayub said that Pakistan is blessed with one of the largest youth populations in the region, presenting a historic demographic opportunity that can accelerate economic transformation if supported by forward-looking policies. However, he cautioned that without timely investments in quality education, vocational and technical training, healthcare, digital literacy, and decent employment opportunities, the demographic advantage could turn into a significant socio-economic challenge.
The ICCI Acting President observed that the private sector has a pivotal role to play in creating employment opportunities, promoting entrepreneurship, investing in workforce development, and supporting innovation. He urged the government to strengthen collaboration with the business community, academia, and development partners to equip young people with market-driven skills and prepare them for the evolving demands of the global economy.
He further emphasized that policy consistency, economic stability, and a business-friendly environment are indispensable for attracting investment and generating employment on the scale required to absorb Pakistan’s expanding workforce. He called for greater investment in industrialization, technology, SMEs, and export-oriented sectors to create sustainable livelihoods and improve living standards.
Speaking on the occasion, ICCI Vice President Mohammad Irfan Chaudhry stressed that empowering youth through technical education, vocational training, digital skills, and entrepreneurship is essential for enhancing productivity and reducing unemployment. He added that a vibrant SME sector, supported by enabling government policies and easier access to finance, can play a transformative role in creating jobs and ensuring inclusive economic growth.
