Youth Population in PNG Surges by 60%

Youths boom in PNG by 60 percent (Image: Supplied)

Papua New Guinea's population growth has seen a boom in youth population of age 25 and below with 60% majority.

This population growth is driven by 4.2% fertility rate of mothers with families having between four to five children at an average.

While the current PNG population statistics are yet to be revealed, it is predicted to be over 15-million people - almost triple the last Census in 2011.

Academic Head of the Port Moresby General Hospital Obstetrics and Gynecology, Professor Glen Mola says from the 60%, 50% are below the ages of 18.

Professor Mola noted, with this population growth, it is impossible for any government to be successful.

He says a country's demographic dividend depends on working age group and ages below 18 are unable to contribute to the country's economic growth.

More significantly, the growth in country's population places a critical challenge on Government to meet demand for basic services such as education, health and roads.

Professor Mola highlighted this today at the commemoration of World Population Day, hosted by Marie Stopes PNG.