KARACHI, Oct 22 (IN): Federal Minister for Health Syed Mustafa Kamal on Thursday emphasised the need for sustained investment in Pakistan’s youth, warning that the country’s growing young population could become a national liability without proper guidance, education and employment opportunities.Addressing Career Connect ’26 as chief guest, organised by the Department of Computer Science at the University of Karachi, the minister described the university as a landmark institution and called for collective efforts, consistent policies and strategic guidance to further strengthen its standing.He said Pakistan’s population had exceeded 260 million, with an annual growth rate of 2.5 per cent and a fertility rate of 3.7 per cent, placing increasing pressure on the country’s healthcare, education and economic sectors.
Mustafa Kamal noted that approximately 68 per cent of Pakistan’s population comprised young people, making their development crucial to harnessing the country’s demographic potential and ensuring sustainable national progress.Expressing concern over child health and education, he said around 43 per cent of children suffered from stunting due to malnutrition, adversely affecting their physical and cognitive development and limiting their future economic potential.He also highlighted the large number of school-age children who remained out of school, stressing that Pakistan could not fully benefit from its young population without addressing these fundamental challenges.Emphasising preventive healthcare, the minister said the health system must go beyond treating patients and constructing hospitals to ensure access to clean drinking water, timely vaccination, adequate nutrition and proper maternal care.He pointed out that many preventable deaths among children and mothers were linked to unsafe drinking water, infectious diseases, inadequate vaccination and malnutrition, underscoring the urgent need for effective public health interventions.
The minister stressed that tackling these challenges required a comprehensive approach involving grassroots communities, local governments and federal institutions.He further underscored the importance of effective planning, sustained efforts and policy continuity in strengthening Pakistan’s healthcare and education systems and achieving long-term development goals.Expressing optimism about the country’s future, Mustafa Kamal said active participation by academia, industry and young people, supported by consistent policies and collective action, could help Pakistan overcome its challenges and place national development on a sustainable path.
