INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY 2023: Green Skills for Youth – Shaping a Sustainable World

INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DAY | 23 AUGUST 2023

Theme: Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World

Greetings to all on this remarkable International Youth Day 2023! Today, we celebrate the vigor, ideas, and leadership of our young generation as they embark on a journey to create a better world for all. This year’s theme, “Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World,” resonates deeply in a world where the need for environmental consciousness is more pressing than ever.

Green Transition and Youth’s Vital Role The global shift towards sustainability is imperative to tackle climate crises and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. At the heart of this transition lies the development of green skills – encompassing knowledge, values, and abilities required to thrive in a resource-efficient society. These skills encompass both technical prowess in utilizing green technologies and the broader ability to make Eco-conscious choices across all aspects of life.

Youth Pioneering the Change Our younger generation stands at the forefront of this green revolution. Their longevity on this path means that their contributions can span decades, making them invaluable agents of change. To honor their role, the Global Association of Youth Organizations (GAYO) has organized a series of events, including a TV show and District Youth Day Celebrations.

TV Show Highlights In an upcoming TV show, esteemed panelists including the Director-General of the National Youth Council of Malawi (NYCOM), SADC Youth Parliamentarian, National Coordinator for Girls Activist Youth Organization, M&E Manager for Youth Wave Organization, and a student from Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources will delve into the instrumental role young people play in realizing the Sustainable Development Goals (Agenda 2030). Their insights will illuminate how youth can strengthen institutional coordination, planning, and service work, setting the stage for holistic development.

Key Message: Youth Empowerment for a Sustainable Future The heart of this year’s celebration encapsulates the indomitable spirit of youth. Through their determination, solidarity, and innovation, young people stand as champions for social justice, climate action, and prosperity. The message is clear: governments must prioritize youth participation across decisions and policies, making it the rule rather than the exception.

Creating a Cleaner, Greener Future With our world rapidly evolving through sustainable technologies, renewable energy, and visionary changes in industries and transportation, the imperative for equipping our youth with green skills is paramount. To shape a cleaner, greener, and climate-resilient future, young individuals must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to lead the way.

A Call to Action Today, and every day, let us rally behind our young leaders as they steer us towards a world defined by justice, sustainability, and prosperity for all. As we celebrate International Youth Day 2023, let’s commit to supporting and empowering youth in their quest to create a just and sustainable world. Together, we can cultivate equitable education systems, especially in rural and farming communities, and champion positive change that benefits us all.

Join us in celebrating the spirit of youth and their determination to transform our world into a sustainable haven for generations to come. Happy International Youth Day 2023!