AZAD Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), with its breathtaking landscape and vibrant cultural heritage, is a region brimming with potential. Yet, it faces significant challenges that hinder progress, particularly for its youth, who make up a substantial portion of the population. Harnessing the potential of AJK’s young population is not just an aspiration but a necessity for creating a prosperous and inclusive future.
Over 60% of AJK’s population is under the age of 30, presenting a demographic dividend with immense potential for innovation and transformation. However, this potential remains untapped due to obstacles such as limited access to quality education, unemployment and a lack of platforms for creative expression. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive strategies to empower youth, equipping them with the tools to drive progress and shape their destinies.
Education is the cornerstone of youth empowerment. While AJK has made strides in literacy, remote areas still face significant gaps in access to quality education. Schools often lack basic infrastructure, trained teachers and modern curricula. To address this, the government and civil society must prioritize investment in education. E-learning platforms can bridge the gap for remote students, while vocational training centres can provide skills aligned with market demands. Collaboration with international institutions can further enhance educational opportunities. Unemployment is another pressing issue. Despite AJK’s abundant natural resources and strategic location, economic opportunities remain scarce, driving many young people to migrate in search of better prospects. This brain drain hampers local development. Promoting entrepreneurship can be transformative. Establishing business incubation centres and providing microloans can empower young entrepreneurs. Developing sectors such as tourism, agriculture and technology can generate significant economic growth. Additionally, leveraging special economic zones under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) can attract investment and create jobs.
Youth participation in politics is crucial for fostering inclusivity. However, young people often feel excluded from decision-making, which remains dominated by older generations. Encouraging youth engagement through leadership programs, mentorship initiatives and civic education can nurture informed citizens. Empowering young people to take on political roles fosters innovation and a sense of ownership in regional development.
Social challenges such as gender inequality, child labour and discrimination must be addressed to create an equitable society. Women and girls face additional barriers in accessing education and employment. Targeted programs, including scholarships and skill development workshops, can help break these barriers. Expanding access to digital tools and the internet is also vital for bridging the digital divide, enabling young people to participate in the global digital economy.
AJK’s stunning natural beauty and abundant resources come with the responsibility of sustainability. Youth can play a pivotal role in addressing environmental challenges such as deforestation and climate change. Climate education, tree-planting drives and renewable energy projects can engage youth in meaningful actions. Collaboration with international organizations can provide resources and expertise for sustainable development.
The youth of AJK are key to building a future of peace, stability and progress. Empowering them requires a collective effort from the government, civil society, private sector and international partners. By investing in education, entrepreneurship, inclusivity and sustainability, AJK can unlock the potential of its youth, fostering a brighter and more inclusive future where every young person has the opportunity to thrive and contribute.
—The writer is contributing columnist.
