Green Skills For Youths: Importance Of Youth Engagement For A Sustainable World

By Uche William AJIDE… 

First of all who are the youths? Youths are those in the period between childhood and adult age. On 12 August every year, the world observes International Youth Day.

This day celebrates the contributions, ideas, energy and creativity of young people to foster positive change, not only for themselves, but also for their communities and the rest of the world.

Accelerating the shift towards an environmentally sustainable and climate friendly world is critical not only for responding to the global climate crisis but also for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals [SDGs].

A successful transition towards a greener world depends on the development of green skills, which are “knowledge, abilities, values and attitudes needed to live in, develop and support a sustainable and resource-efficient society”. Youth green skills are essential to a successful transition to the green economy.

Young people need to be well-equipped with green skills so that they can better contribute to the transition to a greener future and successfully navigate this changing environment in the world of both work and life.

Young people want to- and need to- act as catalytic agents in building a greener future. For that to happen, green skills need to be at the core of young people’s education, employment and everyday lives.

Young people can bring a unique perspective, energy and enthusiasm to partnerships for the Sustainable Development Goals [SDGs].

Our ability to think creatively and outside the box, as well as our proficiency in using technology and social media, can contribute to new and innovative solutions to achieve the SDGs.

To unleash the potential of young people’s contributions towards the SDGs, it is important to involve youths in decision-making, provide access to information and resources, increase funding, provide mentorship and guidance, build network, invest in skills development, and create opportunities for youth participation.

I want to raise awareness about the importance of encouraging others to support youth engagements in partnerships for the SDGs especially NGOs on climate change and youth development.

In conclusion, we can help ensure that young people play a critical role in achieving the SDGs by encouraging them to be themselves.

Ajide, Uche William

writes from FGBC Abuja