KARACHI:
Around the world, countries invest in the youth to enhance their economic progress and global competitiveness. Developing the youth skills helps promote social inclusion by providing equal opportunities to marginalised youth. It fosters entrepreneurship and innovation enabling young individuals to start businesses, address societal challenges, etc.
Youth skills development equips young people with life skills and encourages them to participate in communities leading to responsible citizenship. The United Nations (UN) designated the 15th of July as World Youth Skills Day (WYSDD). This year’s theme is “Skilling teachers, trainers, and youth for a transformative future,” to draw attention towards the crucial role played by teachers, trainers, and educators in providing essential skills to the youth. By empowering educators, we enable them to effectively guide and support young people as they transition into the labour market and actively engage in society. The rapid technological advancements and ever-evolving labour market have increased the demand for adaptable skill sets.
Therefore, the relevant stakeholders in Pakistan including the government, educators, and the business community must work to equip young individuals with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate these changes. Technical and vocational education and training in Pakistan need to be uniquely positioned to meet these demands by eliminating barriers to entry into the workforce, ensuring that acquired skills are relevant and certified, promoting environmentally friendly skills, and providing skill development opportunities to the youth who are not currently in education, employment, or training. WSYDD serves as an opportunity for Pakistan to acknowledge the potential of its young population as catalysts for positive change. All stakeholders need to commit to providing Pakistani youth with the skills and opportunities necessary for building a prosperous and sustainable nation for all.
Dr Intikhab Ulfat
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, July 14th, 2023.
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