Let’s specifically talk about the segment of Karachi’s population that goes out every day in search of work, wandering around the city, facing hardships at every corner, and compromising their dignity just to earn a small amount to feed their dependents. The harsh conditions imposed on us by our own leaders are making life increasingly difficult. I don’t think this particular class in Pakistan can survive for long under such circumstances.
Private institutions have become like government offices: when a position opens, over a thousand CVs flood in due to the high unemployment rate. What’s worse is that many HR teams treat interviews as a game because they have no intention of actually hiring someone. They advertise jobs with attractive salaries, but if by chance they do find a suitable candidate, they end up offering a salary that barely covers basic utilities like gas and electricity bills. The middle class doesn’t need an explanation—we all understand.
Still, HR departments in large and small companies post motivational messages on LinkedIn, advising others on the ‘right path,’ while they themselves aren’t following it. And if, despite all the struggles, someone finally does get a job, they find themselves in offices where only a few companies treat employees decently, while most exploit their workers. They demand a range of skills in exchange for minimal pay, often requiring tasks that even the HR, Team Leader, or the boss themselves don’t know how to perform.
It’s crucial that some action be taken; otherwise, survival will only get harder.