Professor Dr. Adil Najam, President of WWF International, explores the urgent realities of Pakistan’s growing and youthful population. Speaking at the Supreme Court Conference on Population, he stresses the need to align demographic trends with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Dr. Najam highlights several major challenges. These include improving access to quality education, creating meaningful jobs, and ensuring gender inclusion in the workforce. He explains that Pakistan’s population growth can either drive progress or deepen inequality—depending on the country’s choices.
Moreover, he calls for bold structural reforms and long-term planning. Without these, the benefits of a large young population may be lost. Dr. Najam argues that investing in people—especially through education and health—is the key to national success.
In addition, he emphasizes that planning must focus not only on numbers but also on opportunity. Policies must aim to empower individuals so they can contribute fully to society.
Overall, this insightful presentation provides a forward-looking roadmap. It encourages policymakers, civil society, and institutions to work together toward inclusive and sustainable development that truly reflects the potential of Pakistan’s population.
