Research Study for GAIN (2024)

Abstract Pakistan is grappling with severe food security which is further exacerbated by rapid population growth, urbanization, inadequate mechanization, and climate change. About 18% of the population is undernourished and significant rates of stunting and underweight are reported among children. This has serious consequences for human capital and thereby social and economic progress of the country. The economic impact of malnutrition is significant, costing Pakistan about three percent of its GDP annually. With the population expected to reach 350 million by 2050, the challenge of meeting food demand is intensifying. Hence, there is an urgent need for policies to focus on improving access to safe and nutritious food to ensure sustainable development. Youth engagement is critical in transforming Pakistan’s food systems. With agriculture being a key sector for employment, especially in rural areas, young people can play a significant role in making food systems more sustainable and equitable. Despite the global trend of youth involvement in food systems, Pakistan’s unique socioeconomic context poses challenges and opportunities. The youth, making up 60% of the population, can drive changes towards sustainable food practices and policies. Enhancing their knowledge, skills, and participation in food-related businesses and policy-making is crucial for achieving environmentally sustainable and socially inclusive food systems. By doing so, young people can help reduce the ecological footprint of food production and consumption, ensuring better access to nutritious food for all. The present research investigated the role of youth in food systems in the Pakistani context and concluded that the involvement of young people in agri-based industries is low due to challenges such as poor infrastructure, lack of access to finance, low earnings, inadequate support, high input costs, and limited practical knowledge. These issues contribute to the perception of young people that agriculture cannot provide satisfactory living standards, leading them to favor white-collar jobs that offer higher returns and lower risks. Young people from rural areas, in particular, view farming as an unattractive career option due to geographic isolation, high transport costs, and poor land use policies. Furthermore, the agriculture sector’s lack of modern practices and technologies further diminishes its appeal, making it difficult for young people to see agriculture as a viable and rewarding career path. This study calls for reducing high input costs, adopting modern farming practices, improving skills and practical knowledge, adopting new technologies and practices such as digital platforms for procurement and sales, and value-added agricultural activities, among others to the agriculture sector attractive to youth.