World Youth Skills Day has been observed annually on July 15th since 2014, following its declaration by the United Nations. The purpose of this day is to acknowledge the criticality of imparting young individuals with the essential skills required for employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship. In an era of rapid technological advancement and evolving labor market dynamics, it becomes imperative to equip young people with adaptable and flexible skill sets.
To address these evolving needs, technical and vocational education and training (TVET) play a crucial role. TVET aims to break down barriers to employment, ensure the relevance and certification of acquired skills, promote environmentally-friendly practices, and offer skill development opportunities for young individuals who are not engaged in education, employment, or training.
The theme for World Youth Skills Day 2023 is “Skilling teachers, trainers, and youth for a transformative future.” This theme underscores the essential role played by teachers, trainers, and educators in providing the necessary skills to enable youth to transition into the labor market and actively engage in their communities and societies.
Since its establishment in 2014, World Youth Skills Day has provided a unique platform for dialogue among young people, TVET institutions, businesses, employers’ and workers’ organizations, policymakers, and development partners. Participants have consistently highlighted the growing significance of skills as the world embraces a sustainable model of development.
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The United Nations, founded on October 24, 1945, after its Charter was ratified by China, France, the U.S.S.R., the U.K., and the United States, along with other signatories, emerged in the aftermath of the Second World War. Its primary objectives have always been to uphold international law, maintain global peace and security, provide humanitarian assistance, and defend human rights. The organization was created as a successor to the disintegrated League of Nations, which existed prior to the Second World War.
Throughout its existence, the United Nations has actively participated in global affairs, adapting its operations to changes in international relations. It has responded to various challenges such as the decolonization of the Global South, the end of the Cold War, the rise of the U.S. as a hegemon, climate change, and refugee crises. Today, the United Nations strives to achieve its 17 sustainable development goals.
In 2014, the United Nations introduced World Youth Skills Day to shed light on the skills necessary for the employment and entrepreneurship of young people, recognizing their strategic importance for the future. This annual observance provides a unique opportunity for policymakers, employers, development partners, and vocational and training educational programs to engage in dialogue with young individuals regarding the skills required for a transition to a sustainable development model.