WORLD Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 offers a stark reminder that the global labour market is poised for transformative change over the next decade. Technological advancements, demographic shifts, and environmental challenges are reshaping industries and redefining what it means to work. This will create new opportunities but also render many traditional jobs obsolete. For countries like ours, this transition presents both a significant challenge and an opportunity to prepare its workforce for the future.
Technology is at the heart of this transformation. The rise of artificial intelligence, automation, and green technologies is expected to redefine industries and the nature of work itself. Over 60% of employers believe that broader digital access will fundamentally change their businesses. While some sectors, like clerical work and manual jobs, will shrink, new roles in AI, cybersecurity, and renewable energy will emerge. For Pakistan, which has a large and young population, the challenge is to ensure that its workforce is equipped with the necessary skills to take advantage of these opportunities. This means overhauling education system to prioritize STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. The future workforce must be fluent in coding, data analysis, AI, and other digital skills. Public and private sector collaborations can play a crucial role in providing training and resources to bridge the skills gap. Additionally, fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship will be key. By supporting tech startups and encouraging businesses to adopt emerging technologies, we can stimulate economic growth and create new jobs in the digital economy. The green transition adds another layer of opportunity. With climate change driving demand for sustainable solutions, jobs in renewable energy, electric vehicles, and environmental engineering are expected to surge. Investing in clean energy infrastructure and training workers in green technologies could position us as a regional leader in sustainability, while simultaneously creating a wealth of new job opportunities. By preparing workforce for the demands of a technology-driven economy, Pakistan can unlock new avenues for growth. The time to act is now, as the global labour market moves rapidly towards a new era of work.
