YOUTH AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT SHAPING A GREENER FUTURE

  YOUTH AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT SHAPING A GREENER FUTURE

 

In a world facing unprecedented environmental challenges, the importance of cultivating green skills among the youth cannot be overstated. Green skills encompass a wide range of knowledge and abilities that contribute to environmentally sustainable practices. In recognition of their role as young leaders of tomorrow, it is important that the youth are informed and engaged with the global vision for the future. By empowering young people with green skills, will shape out greener future where sustainability is not just a goal but a way of life and charge towards a greener, healthier, and more sustainable world for generations to come.

            As the world commemorates the 2023 UN International Youth Day (IYD), with the theme “Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World,” we find ourselves at a pivotal juncture. The future of our planet depends on our collective commitment to empower the youth with skills that foster innovation, sustainable practices, and progress. Over 60 percent of Africa's population is under the age of 25. The potential in this is staggering.

            In conclusion, youths minds have the creativity, drive, and ingenuity to forge a new trajectory in development and shaping a greener future. The transformation can provide resilience, shared prosperity, and ecological progress, while driving the continent’s competitiveness. Diverse panel of experts, youth leaders, and sustainability advocates shared insights, experiences, and practical knowledge about the significance of green skills among youth in the region. Discussions revolved around the drivers and trends of climate change and its implications for the labour market of the region. The shift towards green economies also affects the employment landscape. When effectively managed, this transition can generate significant opportunities for decent jobs, especially for young people. Renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, urban planning, and green infrastructure are potential sectors ripe with employment prospects in the realm of a green transition.

WRITTEN BY 

MURITALA OPEYEMI TOBILOBA

OS/23B/0970