Fresh population projections put the number of humans over seven billion in 2011, just 12 years after humanity passed the six billion mark. What’s most notable in the new analysis is confirmation that while fertility rates are dropping in many places, some of the world’s most turbulent and poverty-stricken regions are seeing explosive population growth leading to enormous numbers of teenagers and children. (More evidence that puberty rules planet Earth at the moment?)

Such a youth bulge can be an asset if education and economic activity are there to build a work force. But without prospects, the result can be higher risks of conflict. Look at the population projection for Uganda, showing that country heading to a population of 96 million in 2050 from 31 million today. How does a country like Uganda build schools fast enough, train teachers fast enough and improve sanitation fast enough to harness the potential in its youth? Ideas welcome.

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