KARACHI, Oct 22 (APP):Federal Minister for Health Syed Mustafa Kamal on Thursday stressed the need for sustained investment in Pakistan’s youth, warning that the country’s growing young population could become a national liability if not provided with proper guidance and 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 whose standing should be further enhanced through collective efforts, continuity of policies and strategic guidance.
He said the country’s population had crossed 260 million, with an annual growth rate of 2.5 per cent and a fertility rate of 3.7 per cent, creating mounting challenges for the country’s health, education and economic sectors.
The Minister said around 68 per cent of the country’s population comprised young people, making investment in their development essential to harnessing the country’s demographic potential.
Expressing concern over the state of child health and education, Mustafa Kamal said approximately 43 per cent of children suffered from stunting caused by malnutrition, affecting their physical and cognitive development and limiting their potential to contribute to the economy.
He said millions of school-age children remained out of school, adding that the country could not fully benefit from its young population without addressing these fundamental challenges.
Emphasising the importance of preventive healthcare, the Minister said the health sector should not focus solely on treating patients or constructing hospitals but also ensure access to clean drinking water, timely vaccination, adequate nutrition and proper maternal care.
He highlighted the heavy toll of preventable deaths among children and mothers, saying that many such deaths were linked to unsafe drinking water, infectious diseases, lack of vaccination and malnutrition.
The Federal Minister stressed that addressing these challenges required a comprehensive approach, beginning at the grassroots level and extending to local governments and federal institutions.
He said sustained efforts, effective planning and continuity of policies were essential to strengthening the country’s healthcare and education systems and ensuring long-term development.
He expressed optimism that active participation by academia, industry and young people, coupled with consistent efforts, could help Pakistan overcome its challenges and put national development on a sustainable path.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
