It is undeniably true to say that a world without youth is a world with no hope or future. They are the backbone of our society. As the world progresses, it is crucial to educate and empower our youth, as they are the ones who will shape our future world.
Observed annually on July 15th, this day was proclaimed by the United Nations in 2014. World Youth Skills Day celebrates the importance of empowering youth with the necessary skills for employment and entrepreneurship. According to the International Labor Organization, young people are three times more likely to be unemployed than older people. Since this is incredibly concerning, the day highlights the growing need to address the challenges faced by youth due to underemployment and unemployment.
With the rapid advancement of technology in today’s world, the job market keeps evolving more than ever. In order to face this change just as confidently, they need to acquire both soft skills and technical skills. This day is a reminder that skill development is not just about securing a job, but it’s also about creating opportunities for youth so that they can contribute meaningfully to society.
Additionally, on this day, educational institutions and industries are encouraged to collaborate in skills development programs that are relevant to the ever-changing demands of the job market.
Panel discussions, youth-led workshops and skills exhibitions are commonly held on this day, which aims to bring together young people, educators and employers. These events are also proven to be successful in preparing the youth for both formal employment and self-employment.
Unarguably, World Youth Skills Day is a call to action; it’s a commitment to recognize and nurture the potential of youth everywhere. As the leaders and innovators of the future world, young people must be equipped today. Let’s all remind ourselves that a world that invests in the skills of its youth is a world that secures a brighter future.
