- A Policy Review of Pakistan’s National Youth Policy: Analysis and Way Forward
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A Policy Review of Pakistan's National Youth Policy: Analysis and Way Forward
Urooj Bibi
Abstract: This paper critically reviews Pakistan’s National Youth Policy (NYP), first introduced in 2008 and later updated in 2019. With over 60% of its population under the age of 30, Pakistan faces both challenges and opportunities in youth development. This study explores the policy’s goals, implementation status, key achievements, and existing gaps. The research applies a qualitative methodology, analyzing government documents, reports, and expert opinions. The findings reveal that while the NYP is ambitious in scope, its execution lacks coordination, funding, and provincial alignment. The paper concludes with strategic recommendations to revamp the policy through inclusive governance, skill development initiatives, mental health support, and improved monitoring mechanisms.
1. Introduction:
Youth represent the most dynamic segment of Pakistan’s population, with immense potential to contribute to national progress. According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics and UNDP (2018), approximately 64% of the population is under the age of 30, and 29% fall in the age bracket of 15–29 years, classified as ‘youth’. Recognizing this demographic dividend, the Government of Pakistan introduced the National Youth Policy (NYP) in 2008 and updated it in 2019 to cater to evolving challenges. The policy outlines a roadmap to empower youth socially, economically, and politically. This paper aims to analyze the effectiveness of the NYP, evaluate its implementation mechanisms, and propose a strategic way forward.
2. Objectives of the National Youth Policy:
The NYP sets forth a comprehensive agenda aimed at harnessing the potential of Pakistani youth.
The key objectives include:
Promoting youth empowerment through education, skill development, and employment opportunities. Fostering civic engagement, social inclusion, and volunteerism. Enhancing access to quality health services including mental health Encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation. Ensuring participation of youth in democratic processes and decision making.
Establishing institutional frameworks for policy implementation and monitoring.
3. Methodology:
The research methodology is primarily qualitative, relying on content analysis of primary and secondary sources. These include official policy documents (NYP 2008 and 2019), reports from UNDP, Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, Ministry of Planning and Development, academic literature, and policy evaluations from think tanks like SDPI and PIDE. Comparative insights are also drawn from international youth policies.
4. Policy Review and Analysis:
4.1 Policy Evolution and Scope: The NYP 2008 was the first formal attempt to recognize youth as a distinct demographic group needing targeted policies. It covered education, employment, health, sports, recreation, and participation in governance. However, limited implementation led to the formulation of the updated NYP 2019, which broadened the scope by aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and introducing concepts like digital inclusion, mental health, and environmental sustainability.
4.2 Institutional Mechanisms: The NYP 2019 proposed the establishment of the National Youth Development Framework (NYDF), National Youth Council, and provincial youth departments to coordinate implementation. However, coordination among federal and provincial entities remains weak, especially after the 18th Amendment, which devolved youth affairs to provinces without adequate financial and administrative support.
4.3 Strengths of the Policy:
Comprehensive and inclusive policy framework.
Emphasis on multi-sectoral collaboration.
Focus on entrepreneurship through programs like Kamyab Jawan and Hunarmand Pakistan.
Acknowledgement of gender inclusivity and marginalized groups.
4.4 Gaps and Challenges:
Despite a well-crafted policy framework, several barriers hinder implementation:
Budget Constraints: Allocation for youth programs remains insufficient and inconsistent.
Weak Monitoring Mechanisms: Lack of reliable data and poor follow-up impede outcome assessment.
Provincial Incoherence: Absence of harmonized provincial youth policies causes fragmentation.
Limited Outreach: Youth in rural and underdeveloped regions are often unaware of available initiatives.
Gender Disparities: Female youth face additional barriers due to cultural and systemic biases.
Mental Health Neglect: Although mentioned in the policy, few tangible steps have been taken to address mental health issues.
4.5 Programmatic Initiatives: Several flagship programs have been launched in line with the NYP:
Kamyab Jawan Program: Offers business loans and skill development courses.
National Youth Development Center: Proposed as a hub for research and policy coordination.
Prime Minister’s Youth Affairs Program (PMYAP): Coordinates youth-related initiatives, internships, and scholarships.
5. Comparative Insights:
Countries like Malaysia and India offer valuable lessons. Malaysia’s youth policy includes decentralized youth centers, structured leadership training, and real-time data portals. India integrates youth development into national planning with strong monitoring and stakeholder engagement. Pakistan can adopt similar models for better execution.
6. Recommendations and Way Forward:
To make the National Youth Policy more impactful and operationally effective, the following steps are recommended:
Provincial Policy Formulation: Encourage provinces to draft youth policies aligned with NYP 2019 to ensure local relevance and implementation.
Budget Enhancement: Secure dedicated funds for youth development programs and ensure timely disbursement.
Capacity Building: Train local governments and civil society organizations to implement and monitor youth programs.
Digital Platforms: Develop interactive apps and portals for awareness, participation, and policy feedback.
Mental Health Services: Integrate mental health programs into educational institutions and youth centers.
Inclusive Governance: Ensure youth representation in local and national governance structures, especially from underrepresented communities.
Partnerships: Collaborate with private sector, NGOs, and international agencies for funding and innovation.
7. Conclusion:
Pakistan’s National Youth Policy holds significant promise for empowering youth but faces numerous implementation challenges. A coherent strategy combining federal direction with provincial autonomy, adequate funding, and active youth participation is key to unlocking the potential of Pakistan’s youth. By addressing institutional weaknesses and investing in human capital, Pakistan can transform its demographic dividend into sustainable development.
References:
• Government of Pakistan. (2008). National Youth Policy. Ministry of Youth Affairs.
• Government of Pakistan. (2019). National Youth Policy. Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination.
• UNDP Pakistan. (2018). National Human Development Report: Unleashing the Potential of a Young Pakistan.
• SDPI. (2021). Youth Policy and Its Implementation Challenges in Pakistan.
• PIDE. (2022). Youth and Employment in Pakistan: A Policy Analysis.
• Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (2020). Labour Force Survey.
• Ministry of Planning and Development. (2023). Annual Development Report.
• Commonwealth Secretariat. (2020). Global Youth Development Index