Many young people do not have access to mentors or role models who can provide them with guidance and support in making important life decisions
Shoukat Lohar
Youth is considered the fresh fuel of any nation, full of potential and energy. They are the ones who hold the promise of a better future and are expected to drive the progress and development of a country. However, the youth in Sindh and Pakistan face numerous challenges and issues that hinder their growth and potential. From lack of mentoring and guidance to the impact of technology, societal pressures, economic challenges, and political constraints, the youth in Sindh and Pakistan are grappling with a range of problems that affect their well-being and prospects. Let’s understand their key issues faced by the youth in Sindh and Pakistan, and explore potential ways forward to address these challenges.
One of the critical issues faced by the youth in Sindh and Pakistan is the lack of proper mentoring and guidance. Many young people do not have access to mentors or role models who can provide them with guidance and support in making important life decisions. This lack of guidance often leads to confusion and uncertainty among the youth, making it difficult for them to make informed choices about their education, career, and personal lives. Without proper mentoring, young people may struggle to navigate the complexities of life, and this can have long-term consequences on their personal and professional development.
The over reliance on technology can also hinder the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are crucial for the youth to thrive in the modern world.
Another issue that affects the youth in Sindh and Pakistan is the increasing reliance on gadgets and technology. While technology has brought about numerous advancements and opportunities, it has also created a quagmire for the youth. Excessive use of gadgets, social media addiction, and online distractions can have adverse effects on the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of young people. It can lead to issues such as sleep deprivation, lack of social skills, reduced physical activity, and increased mental health problems such as anxiety and depression.
The over reliance on technology can also hinder the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are crucial for the youth to thrive in the modern world.
Furthermore, societal pressures and expectations also pose significant challenges for the youth in Sindh and Pakistan. Traditional norms and cultural expectations often dictate the choices and decisions of young people, leaving little room for individuality and personal freedom. Societal pressures to conform to certain gender roles, marry at a young age, or pursue specific career paths can limit the choices and opportunities available to young people. This can result in unfulfilled aspirations, lack of self-expression, and reduced motivation to pursue their passions and interests.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also had a significant impact on the youth in Sindh and Pakistan. The prolonged lockdowns, economic disruptions, and mental health challenges associated with the pandemic have taken a toll on the well-being of young people. Many have experienced a psychological downfall due to the uncertainties and anxieties caused by the pandemic, leading to increased stress, depression, and suicidal tendencies. The closure of educational institutions and the shift to online learning has also affected the quality of education for many young people, further exacerbating the challenges they face.
In addition, the issue of floods and natural disasters is also a significant challenge for the youth in Sindh and Pakistan. The frequent flooding in the region has resulted in loss of lives, displacement, and destruction of infrastructure, including educational institutions. Many young people have had their lives disrupted by floods, and the lack of access to basic necessities such as clean water, food, shelter, and education has further compounded their challenges.
Another issue faced by the youth in Sindh is the increasing cost of education. The rising tuition fees and expenses associated with higher education have made it difficult for many young students, both male and female, to afford quality education.
This has resulted in many young people dropping out of school or university, or not pursuing higher education at all. The lack of affordable educational opportunities
The youth of Sindh face numerous challenges and issues that need to be addressed for a better future. From the lack of student unions in universities to the impact of inflation on their lives, the youth often feel disillusioned and hopeless. However, there are ways forward for them to overcome these challenges and achieve success.
One of the significant challenges faced by the youth in Sindh and Pakistan is the absence of student unions in universities. Student unions provide a platform for students to voice their concerns, engage in constructive discussions, and work towards the betterment of their educational institutions. However, due to various reasons, including government policies and security concerns, student unions have been banned in many universities in Pakistan. This lack of representation has left the youth feeling unheard and disconnected from the decision-making process that directly affects their education and well-being.
Despite these challenges, it is crucial for the youth to remain hopeful and positive
Another pressing issue is the impact of inflation on the lives of the youth. Rising prices of goods and services have made it difficult for them to afford basic necessities, such as education, healthcare, and housing. The economic crunch has also resulted in a lack of employment opportunities, leaving many young people unemployed or underemployed. This has led to frustration, hopelessness, and disillusionment among the youth, as they struggle to secure a stable and prosperous future for themselves.
Despite these challenges, it is crucial for the youth to remain hopeful and positive. They should not lose faith in themselves or their abilities. Instead of waiting for government jobs (Pakky nokri), they should explore alternative avenues for success. They should focus on their education, engage in reading, and seek out scholarly individuals who can provide guidance and mentorship. Education is a powerful tool that can empower the youth to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. By acquiring knowledge and developing critical thinking skills, they can become active participants in shaping their own future.
One of the ways forward for the youth is to explore opportunities beyond their local communities and borders. They should actively seek scholarships and study abroad programs to broaden their horizons and gain exposure to different cultures and ideas. This can not only enhance their academic and professional skills but also broaden their perspectives and help them become global citizens. By interacting with people from diverse backgrounds, they can learn valuable lessons, expand their networks, and open up new doors of opportunities.
Another important aspect for the youth is to break away from the patronage-based culture prevalent in many parts of Pakistan. Bureaucracy and nepotism have often hindered meritocracy, where individuals are judged based on their abilities and qualifications rather than their connections or recommendations. Many young people feel disheartened and disadvantaged by this system, which often favors those with political influence or financial resources. To overcome this challenge, the youth should strive to find new vistas and fresh opportunities based on their skills, talents, and hard work. They should explore entrepreneurial ventures, create their own startups, and seek out innovative solutions to societal problems. They should not be solely dependent on traditional employment options but should actively seek to create their own path towards success.
It is also crucial for the youth to actively engage in the society and contribute to the betterment of their communities. They should not shy away from participating in social and civic activities, such as volunteering for social causes, advocating for human rights, and promoting inclusivity and diversity. By getting involved in social and political issues, the youth can raise their voices, express their opinions, and demand positive change. They should be proactive in holding their leaders and institutions accountable and working towards building a more just, equitable, and inclusive society.
While technology has its advantages, it is also essential for the youth to strike a balance between the virtual and real world. They should not be solely dependent on technology for communication and social interaction but should also come out and engage with their communities. Human connections, face-to-face interactions with people. They should get guidance from experienced ones. These bleak and labyrinth time would surely shut down once and for all. The youth need to curb the menace of societal upheavals with their new and novel critical thinking. They are the crude capital of their nation. They must become hope and dreams of their parents, nations and change them into reality with their industriousness, commitment and persistency.
The Youth: Hope of a Nation!!!!
Oh, radiant youth, with hearts so bold,
You are the treasure, worth more than gold.
The dreams you carry, the fire you ignite,
You are the beacon, shining so bright.
With boundless energy and passion untamed, you are the ones, by destiny named,
To shape the future, to make it bright,
To stand for justice, with unwavering might.
Your parents’ hearts, with love overflow,
As they watch you grow, they proudly show,
Their eyes are filled with hope and pride,
For you are their legacy, their joy and guide.
Your nation yearns for your vision and voice,
To rise above, make a conscious choice,
To lead with wisdom, to break new ground,
To create a world where peace is found.
Youth! You are the change-makers of today,
Your ideals, convictions pave the way,
To build a future where all can thrive,
Where equality and justice come alive.
Embrace the challenges, embrace the change,
With resilience and courage, you rearrange,
The world’s perception, its status quo,
With your determination, you will make it glow.
So, move ahead, with heads held high,
With dreams in heart and stars in eye,
You are the hope, you are the light,
Guiding us all towards a future so bright.
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Shoukat Lohar is Assistant professor in English at Mehran University of Engineering and Technology Jamshoro. He can be reached at Shoukat.ali@faculty.muet.edu.pk
