On 15th July, the world celebrates World Youth Skills Day, an annual observance that highlights the importance of investing in the development of skills and abilities of young people. This day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2014 to raise awareness about the significance of equipping young people with the skills they need to succeed in the workforce, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement.

Why is this day important?

The world is facing unprecedented challenges such as the recovery phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, economic instability, and climate change. These challenges have disrupted education systems, limited employment opportunities, and left many young people feeling uncertain about their future. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), the global youth unemployment rate is expected to reach 13.1% in 2022, which is more than double the adult unemployment rate. This highlights the urgent need to invest in the development of skills and abilities of young people to help them succeed in the workforce and contribute to sustainable development. World Youth Skills Day serves as a reminder of the importance of empowering young people through education, training, and mentorship. It celebrates the potential of young people and encourages them to become active participants in society and contribute to building a better future for all.

Why exactly does this matter to the rest of us?

Investing in the skills and abilities of young people is crucial for the future of our society. Young people are the ones who will shape our world and solve the challenges we face. By equipping them with the tools they need to succeed, we can ensure that they have the knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on their communities and the world. Empowering young people through education, training, and mentorship also has a ripple effect on society. It can lead to increased economic growth, reduced poverty, and improved social cohesion. When young people are given the opportunity to develop their skills and abilities, they are more likely to succeed in the workforce, start their own businesses, and contribute to their communities.

How do we make a difference?

As individuals, we can make a difference by supporting education and training programmes for young people, volunteering our time and skills to mentor and coach them, and advocating for policies that prioritize youth development. At Neurum, we embrace diversity of thoughts and celebrate our differences as a proud partner of the Equal Opportunities Commission in Hong Kong, working with brilliant ethnic minority talents.

The business sector can support organizations that are working to empower young people, such as Neurum Health, which provides personalised wellness solutions to help young people improve their mental wellbeing and thrive in their personal and professional lives.

World Youth Skills Day is an important reminder of the need to invest in the skills and abilities of young people. By empowering them through education, training, and mentorship, we can create a brighter future for all. Let's work together to support the development of young people and ensure that they have the tools they need to succeed!

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