World Youth Skills Day : Theme, Significance, Objectives and Quotes

15 July is observed as World Youth Skills Day. The observance is officially recognized by the United Nations.  One of the primary objectives behind observance of the World Skills Day is to encourage skill-based training and education among the youth.  The relevance of this observance has become more significant amid the global COVID-19 pandemic.  This year most of the events scheduled for World Youth Skills Day are being celebrated virtually.

Quick Facts about World Youth Skills Day

• Day: 15 July
• Official Name: World Youth Skills Day
• Recognized by: United Nation General Assembly
• Declaration:  18 December 2014
• Objective: To encourage skill-based training and education among the youth

History

United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution on 18 December 2014 declaring 15 July as the World Youth Skills Day. High rates of unemployment, especially in developing countries, was expressed as one of the major reasons by the UN General Assembly for passing this resolution.

Objective

World Youth Skills day aims to foster skill acquisition among youth. Better skill acquisition would enhance the ability of every youth to make informed choices in relation to their work as well as their lives. It will also empower them to gain access to the continuously changing markets.

Theme 2021

The theme of World Youth Skills Day 2021 is “Reimagining Youth Skills Post Pandemic”.  The day  acknowledges and celebrates the resilience and creativity of youth throughout the crisis of COVID-19 pandemic. Last year the theme of World Youth Skills Day was  “Skills for a Resilient Youth”.  Many virtual events are being organized around this theme this year.

Importance of World Youth Skills Day

This day addresses the issues of youth unemployment by providing them skill-based training and education. This is very important at a time when the world has been witnessing a global increase in the rate of unemployment.  The outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdown has severely affected the continuity of skill development. As per UNESCO’s assessment, nearly 70% of the students and learners are affected by the pandemic. This is certainly not a favorable scenario for the youth.

Employment-based development and up-gradation of skills are the only ways to lifelong employment.  This is also linked with one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Goal number 4 of the SDGs aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.  This World Youth Skills Day, thus,  comes to us as an opportunity for all stakeholders to recognize the importance of skill-based employment and encourage the same in every possible way.