(By Quratulain Khalid)
In Pakistan, where cultural emphasis on medicine and engineering has long defined “success,” a seismic shift is underway. Parents across the region, from bustling Karachi to the serene valleys of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, still envision their children’s futures through the lens of white coats and hard hats. Yet, as the world hurtles toward a digital and sustainable era, these traditional paths—while stable—are no longer the sole gateways to prosperity. According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, nearly 170 million new jobs will emerge globally by 2030, driven by AI, green transitions, and data revolutions. In Pakistan, this translates to explosive growth in tech, healthcare innovation, and renewable energy, with the IT sector alone projected to contribute $10 billion to the economy by 2025 and create over 1 million jobs.
The Hays Salary Guide 2025, drawing from global employer surveys, underscores this trend: fields like data science and AI are not just booming but resilient to automation, offering salaries that rival or exceed those in medicine and engineering. For Pakistani youth, pursuing a BS or MS after FSc in these areas could mean global opportunities, remote work with international firms, and earnings that afford financial independence early on. This article expands on the world’s top emerging fields, blending global insights with Pakistan-specific trends, updated salary projections, and practical pathways. Don’t confine your child’s potential—equip them for a world that’s evolving faster than ever.
1. Data Science: The Backbone of Decision-Making
The era of “data is the new oil” is here, and data scientists are the refiners turning raw information into actionable gold. In Pakistan, where e-commerce giants like Daraz and fintech startups like JazzCash are exploding, demand for data experts is surging—projected to grow 110% by 2030. Globally, the field tops the fastest-growing jobs list, with roles in predictive analytics for agriculture (vital for Pakistan’s economy) and personalized banking.
Updated Salary Projections (USD, Global Average): Entry-level: $95,000-$130,000 in 2025, rising to $165,000 by 2030. In Pakistan, expect PKR 1.5-3 million annually for mid-level roles, with remote US gigs pushing it to PKR 5-7 million.
Skills and Education: After FSc, pursue a BS in Data Science from NUST or LUMS. Master Python, SQL, and machine learning via Coursera certifications. Key skills: Data visualization (Tableau) and ethical AI.
Opportunities in Pakistan: High demand in Lahore’s tech hubs and Islamabad’s government data initiatives. Freelance on Upwork for international clients—Pakistan ranks third globally in freelancing revenue.
2. Machine Learning (AI): From Sci-Fi to Everyday Innovation
AI isn’t just chatbots; it’s revolutionizing Pakistan’s agriculture (crop yield predictions) and healthcare (diagnostic tools). The WEF ranks AI specialists as the third-fastest-growing job, with 86% of employers expecting transformation by 2030. In Pakistan, AI adoption in startups like Airlift could create 50,000 jobs by 2025.
Updated Salary Projections: $158,000 in 2025, escalating to $170,000+ by 2030 for specialists. Locally, PKR 2-4 million, with AI architects earning up to PKR 3.6 million monthly.
Skills and Education: Ideal for math lovers—BS/MS in Computer Science from FAST-NU. Focus on TensorFlow and neural networks. Certifications: Google Professional ML Engineer.
Opportunities in Pakistan: Roles at Systems Limited or remote for Google. Pakistan’s AI policy aims for 10% GDP contribution by 2030.
3. Business Analyst: Bridging Strategy and Execution
Business analysts translate data into strategies, crucial for Pakistan’s burgeoning SMEs and CPEC projects. Demand is high in the USA/UK, but locally, it’s exploding in fintech and logistics.
Updated Salary Projections: $109,000 in 2025, up to $125,000 by 2030. In Pakistan, PKR 1.2-2.5 million.
Skills and Education: BS in Business Administration from IBA Karachi. Learn Agile/Scrum via PMI certifications.
Opportunities in Pakistan: Banking (HBL) and consulting (EY). Growth: 11% through 2032.
4. Software Developer: Building the Digital Pakistan
Without developers, apps like Careem wouldn’t exist. Pakistan’s software exports hit $2.6 billion in 2024, eyeing $5 billion by 2025.
Updated Salary Projections: $120,000 in 2025, to $140,000 by 2030. Locally, PKR 1-3 million, higher for full-stack.
Skills and Education: BS Computer Science from COMSATS. JavaScript/Python essentials.
Opportunities in Pakistan: Netsol, remote for FAANG. 22% growth projected.
5. Project Management: Orchestrating Success
From CPEC infrastructure to tech rollouts, project managers ensure timelines and budgets align. Hays notes rising demand in construction and IT.
Updated Salary Projections: $105,000 in 2025, to $155,000 by 2030. PKR 1.5-3 million in Pakistan.
Skills and Education: BS Business Management; PMP certification.
Opportunities in Pakistan: PMO roles in energy projects. 7% growth by 2033.
6. HR Manager: People Power in a Hybrid World
As Pakistan’s workforce goes hybrid, HR pros manage talent amid skills gaps. WEF predicts 39% skill shifts by 2030.
Updated Salary Projections: $120,000 in 2025, to $125,000 by 2030. PKR 1.2-2.5 million locally.
Skills and Education: BS HR Management from SZABIST.
Opportunities in Pakistan: Multinationals like Unilever. Focus on DEI and AI recruitment.
7. Procurement Specialist (Supply Chain): Streamlining Global Trade
With CPEC enhancing logistics, supply chain experts are key. Dubai/Saudi demand is high for Pakistanis.
Updated Salary Projections: $60,000 in 2025, to $110,000 by 2030. PKR 1-2 million.
Skills and Education: BS Supply Chain from Sukkur IBA.
Opportunities in Pakistan: Port Qasim roles; Gulf exports.
8. Financial Analyst: Navigating Economic Waves
Pakistan’s stock market and fintech boom need analysts for risk assessment.
Updated Salary Projections: $106,000 in 2025, to $120,000 by 2030. PKR 1-2.2 million.
Skills and Education: BS Finance from LUMS; CFA.
Opportunities in Pakistan: PSX, SBP. 11% growth.
9. Sustainability Specialist (Environment): Green Jobs for a Blue Planet
Pakistan’s climate vulnerability (2022 floods) drives green roles. Renewable energy targets: 30% by 2030.
Updated Salary Projections: $89,000 in 2025, to $130,000 by 2030. PKR 1.2-2.5 million.
Skills and Education: BS Environmental Science from Quaid-i-Azam University.
Opportunities in Pakistan: WWF-Pakistan, solar firms.
Embrace the Change: Securing Tomorrow Today
Limiting children to medicine or engineering ignores Pakistan’s digital destiny—where tech exports could rival textiles by 2030. Encourage curiosity in AI, data, and sustainability. Start with scholarships at top unis like NUST or online platforms like edX. The world isn’t changing; it’s transformed. Guide your child to thrive in it, and watch their future illuminate not just theirs, but Pakistan’s.
