The Pakistani government is focusing on resolving financial issues and attracting international investment, but they are neglecting education, which is crucial. Our educational system is out of date and overemphasizes memorization of theories and facts.

As a result, young people are finding it challenging to meet the expectations of the competitive global economy of today. This prevents Pakistan from making the most of its greatest resource, its youthful and vibrant populace.

Learning facts is only one aspect of education in countries like the US, Germany, and South Korea. It prepares students for careers as future leaders, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers. However, Pakistan's educational system is still outdated.

It prioritizes gaining degrees over developing practical skills and memorization over creativity. One of the main causes of our economy's stagnation is the disconnect between what is taught in schools and what is required for actual employment.

Pakistani graduates failing interviews

"What experience do you have?" is one of the most challenging questions Pakistani recent grads encounter during job interviews. This query draws attention to the disconnect between the labor market and education.

Due to their lack of work experience, recent graduates who have paid up to 1.5 million rupees for their degrees are deemed ineligible for employment. The system that prioritizes paper credentials over practical experience is to blame, not any one person.

In Germany, job skills are taught to students during their school years. This enables them to gain practical work experience prior to graduation. Because science, technology, and job skills are taught extensively in schools, South Korea has become a pioneer in innovation and technology.

However, schools in Pakistan continue to teach outdated material and provide insufficient opportunities for students to acquire practical, hands-on skills.

Teaching pupils the skills they need to thrive in life and support their community should be its main goal.

Market Competitive Skills

Students should concentrate on fundamental subjects, including reading, writing, math, and general knowledge, until they reach the sixth grade. Schools should then begin teaching job-related and technical skills. To assist them in landing the occupations of today, students should acquire skills like engineering, digital marketing, and coding.

Companies and educational institutions should work together to provide internships, training, and practical experience to students. Students will graduate with both knowledge and useful skills thanks to this.

Additionally, students ought to be inspired to consider launching their own companies. Teaching children how to start and manage a business can be accomplished by including business training in the curriculum. More small enterprises will expand as a result, which is crucial for the economy of any nation.

Need for Skill-based Educational System

Pakistan would benefit greatly from switching to a skill-based educational system. More competent workers would lower unemployment, increase productivity, and start new firms. More foreign investments would result from this expansion, which would boost the economy. Pakistan would draw more companies and investors from around the globe if it is recognized for having highly qualified people and innovative minds.

Pakistan will have leaders capable of bringing about constructive change if it fosters critical thinking and communication abilities. A younger generation that is more intelligent and knowledgeable can assist in preventing corruption, promoting transparency, and holding the government responsible.

Example Nations for Pakistan

Germany and South Korea serve as examples of how success can result from investing in education and skills. Once struggling economically, South Korea changed by emphasizing talent development and technology. Large corporations like Samsung and Hyundai now call it home. The well-known apprenticeship system in Germany enables students to obtain practical work experience while they are in school. Germany now has one of the lowest jobless rates in Europe thanks to this.

Adopting these strategies, Pakistan can also succeed. Our young people are equally gifted and capable; all they need are the right circumstances to realize their full potential.

Way forward

Pakistan must abandon its outdated educational system. Schools should concentrate on assisting students in developing their abilities, gaining experience, and being creative rather than only awarding degrees. Better education is only one aspect of this shift; another is strengthening Pakistan's foundation for the future.

Let's opt for advancement and a brighter future!