Youth are the backbone of any nation, and with around 1.2 billion individuals aged 15 to 24 globally, they make up 16% of the world’s population. In India, this group is even bigger, with over 350 million young people, making it home to the world’s largest youth population. Tapping into this massive potential is crucial for a nation’s development and prosperity.
World Youth Skills Day
Recognising how important it is to empower young people, the United Nations General Assembly named July 15th as World Youth Skills Day back in 2014. This day shines a light on the vital role skills play in boosting employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship among young people. These skills are not only essential for personal growth but also key to tackling global challenges and pushing sustainable development forward.
Theme 2024: Youth Skills for Peace and Development
This year’s theme, “Youth Skills for Peace and Development,” highlights the crucial role young people play in peacebuilding and resolving conflicts. In a world dealing with various challenges—from unemployment and educational disruptions due to conflicts to economic inequalities—developing youth skills is a powerful tool for creating stability and progress.
Challenges and Opportunities: Tackling Unemployment and Social Unrest
To effectively tackle issues like unemployment and social unrest among youth, it’s important to recognise systemic barriers and the mismatch between current educational frameworks and market demands. Many young people lack the skills needed for today’s job market, underlining the urgent need for educational reform that integrates comprehensive skill development.
Adapting Education for a Tech-Driven Era
While bringing in a new educational reform to a technology-driven era, educational paradigms must evolve to seamlessly incorporate technological literacy. Today’s youth are inherently proficient with technology, making it a necessity to equip them with the digital skills necessary for future success in an evolving job market.
Promoting Sustainable Development and Economic Growth
Skill development isn’t just about personal growth; it’s also a catalyst for sustainable development and economic prosperity. Skilled youth are better positioned to drive GDP growth through innovative initiatives and sustainable practices, ensuring both personal and societal success.
UNESCO-UNEVOC’s Role in Inclusion and Youth
Organisations like UNESCO-UNEVOC play a pivotal role in promoting inclusive youth skills development by providing access to quality education and vocational training, particularly for marginalised groups. Their initiative aims to equip all young people, regardless of background, with the skills they need to thrive in a competitive world.
When it comes to India, the government needs to step up first in shaping practical-based curricula under the NEP 2020, especially for subjects like commerce that have often seemed disconnected from real-life skills. We’ve got to get these reforms rolling by blending in real-world applications. Bringing in private players will bring in fresh ideas to speed up the spread of this technology-based education, making sure the youth are all set for what lies ahead in their careers.
Commitment to Youth Empowerment
As we celebrate World Youth Skills Day, let’s reaffirm our commitment to equipping youth with the skills they need to shape a better future for all. At Nergy, we understand the transformative power of education and skill development. Through platforms like Nergy Vidya, we seamlessly integrate advanced technology into commerce education, preparing youth to excel in the digital economy and contribute meaningfully to global progress.