Why does a large working-age population not automatically translate into an economic benefit?

Correct answer: Lack of jobs, skills, and health can limit the benefit

A large working-age population creates a possibility for economic growth, but it is not an automatic result. People need relevant education, practical skills, good health, transport, and suitable jobs before they can contribute fully to production. If the economy cannot provide employment, many may remain unemployed, underemployed, or dependent. A large working-age group can then create pressure on households and public services instead of a demographic dividend.

Option A is correct because it identifies the main conditions that can limit the benefit. Option B is false because working-age people can produce when opportunities and capabilities exist. C wrongly describes them all as elderly dependents, and D makes an unsupported claim about birth rates. Age structure indicates potential labour supply; policies and economic conditions determine how much of that potential becomes a benefit.