What is World Youth Skills day?

World Youth Skills Day is celebrated worldwide on July 15^th. Recognised by the United Nations, this observance aims to promote the importance of equipping young individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the evolving global landscape successfully. The theme for 2023 is skilling teachers, trainers, and youth for a transformative future. It highlights the essential role that educators play in teaching young people skills necessary to transition into the working world and actively engage in their community. Lifelong learning is vital for young people in a rapidly evolving job market, there is a real need for continuous development, upskilling and reskilling to remain competitive and adaptable.

Why is World Youth Skills Day important?

Unemployment among young people remains a pressing issue globally. World Youth Skills Day focuses on bridging the gap between education and employment, emphasising the need to provide youth with relevant, marketable skills. By promoting vocational training, apprenticeships, and entrepreneurship, the event plays a crucial role in reducing youth unemployment rates. Research shows that young people (aged 15-29) are 3 times more likely to be unemployed and experience inequalities in the labour market. Technological advancements are increasing the need for new technical skill sets and currently around 63% of the world’s youth lack digital skills.

The UN estimates that in order to meet youth employment needs in the future, 600 million new jobs need to be created in the next 15 years. The amount of youth not in work, education and training rose to 23.5% in 2020, a level not seen in the past 15 years. Education, training, and workplace opportunities is the only way to combat these issues. The UN’s ‘sustainable goal 4’ aims to focus on ensuring equal opportunities to all, ending gender disparity and improving youths access to technical and vocational skills for employment.

World Youth Skills Day advocates for inclusive development, ensuring that young people from diverse backgrounds have access to quality education and training opportunities. This includes marginalized groups, such as young people from low-income families, individuals with disabilities, and those living in rural areas. We must recognise the potential of young entrepreneurs as catalysts for economic growth and job creation. World Youth Skills Day aims to supports young people in developing an entrepreneurial mindset and acquiring the skills necessary to launch and sustain successful businesses. By fostering an entrepreneurial culture, the day empowers young individuals to pursue their aspirations, contribute to their communities, and become agents of change.

Addressing the skills gap

Many industries face a skills gap, where the available workforce lacks the necessary skills required for certain jobs. World Youth Skills Day helps bridge this gap by encouraging young people to acquire industry-relevant skills and training. By actively participating in skill development programs, businesses can contribute to shaping the curriculum and training opportunities, ensuring that the skills being taught align with industry needs. Businesses can help young people by investing in skill development initiatives, such as training and upskilling programs. This demonstrates a commitment to employee growth and development which enhances employee engagement and satisfaction. By participating in World Youth Skills Day activities, businesses can showcase their dedication to supporting young individuals and their career progression, leading to higher employee retention rates.

Sources

https://www.un.org/en/observances/world-youth-skills-day   (Main source)

https://unevoc.unesco.org/wysd/World+Youth+Skills+Day

https://www.awarenessdays.com/awareness-days-calendar/world-youth-skills-day-2023/

https://worldskills.org/what/campaigns/world-youth-skills-day/