IN a world brimming with challenges, young minds spark a beacon of hope for the future. On Aug. 12, International Youth Day commemorated the immense potential of younger generations to boost society’s welfare and their mission to tackle environmental concerns with the theme, “Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World.”

The idea of International Youth Day started in 1965 when youth empowerment became a focal point of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly. The assembly endorsed the Declaration on Promoting Peace, Mutual Respect, and Understanding among People among Youth to support young emerging leaders and distribute resources for global necessities. In 1999, it was officially established at the recommendation of the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth. Since its launch in 2002, International Youth Day has been dedicated to creating seminars, workshops, and campaigns highlighting young people's successes and their essential role in the world. 

Championing Sustainability

This year’s theme mainly concerns the transition to an environmentally stable and climate-friendly society. The UN believes it should be treated with high priority to progress with achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in response to the global climate crisis. Additionally, there is a consensus that "green skills" are essential for a successful transition. According to the UN, the term refers to “knowledge, abilities, values, and attitudes needed to live in, develop and support a sustainable and resource-efficient society.” 

As part of the official celebration of International Youth Day, the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) organized a global webinar that collaborated with the UN Global Initiative on Decent Jobs for Youth and Generation Unlimited. The webinar's objective was divided into three panels to better understand the aspects of “green skills for youth.” The first panel focuses on “Skills for Green Jobs,” which talks about how the green transition influences the world of work. While the second panel focuses on the view of the world of life and transposal skills to help young people make sustainable life decisions. Lastly, the third panel touches on the “Skills for Just Green Transition,” which highlights efforts to address inequalities and call for inclusion in the “Green Transition.” 

Making a Collective Effort

Various local groups in the country also had activities organized. The Youth Affairs and Sports Development Office of Muntinlupa City has planned a Linggo ng Kabataan video-making awareness contest. It was open to participants joining the municipality’s pep talk held last August 10. Participants were instructed to tackle the themes of youth volunteerism, anti-illegal human trafficking, mental health, and environmental awareness. Meanwhile, MakeSense Asia held a weeklong Breakup Party from August 16-18 in Quezon City, Taguig, and La Union. Activities such as spoken word poetry performances, art workshops, and singing competitions advocating for the environment transpired. 

Youth Unleashed: No limits!

Dreaming of a more sustainable world to live in is the starting point of actually attaining it. International Youth Day is all about recognizing the boundless possibilities of young people. When given the opportunity, the youth possesses the power to develop more than what they’re taught. Adults must equip themselves with the right tools to help mitigate climate change concerns.