August 12 is International Youth Day, observed annually. This unique occasion is devoted to honoring the potential, accomplishments, and global contributions of youth.

On this day, we want to draw attention to the difficulties that young people experience and celebrate their vital role as collaborators in creating a better future.

Today’s youth are leading the way in change, leaving their stamp on all aspects of society, whether it is by pushing digital innovation or advocating for social problems.

Let’s examine in more detail the idea, background, importance, and various events of this International Youth Day.

The Theme for International Youth Day 2024 

This year’s celebration theme is ‘From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.’

Our world is changing due to the digital era, which also offers special chances to hasten sustainable growth.

Digital technologies are essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including mobile devices, services, and artificial intelligence.

When it comes to innovation and digital uptake, young people lead the way. Disparities do occur, though, particularly among young women and in low-income nations where they frequently lack access to digital skills and the internet compared to their male counterparts.

Although there is still room for improvement in digital inclusion, young people are typically viewed as digital natives who use technology to drive change and generate solutions.

The SDGs’ 2030 deadline is drawing near, thus young people’s involvement in digital innovation is essential to solving global concerns.

Historical Background of International Youth Day 

The General Assembly passed Resolution 2037 in 1965, supporting the Declaration on the Promotion among Youth of the Ideals of Peace, Mutual Respect, and Understanding among People.

In the area of youth, the General Assembly and the Economic and Social Council focused on three key issues between 1965 and 1975: peace, development, and participation. It additionally highlighted how important it is to have an international youth policy.

The General Assembly passed Resolution 34/151 in 1979 designating 1985 as the International Youth Year: Participation, Development, Peace.

The Assembly adopted resolution 40/14 in 1985, endorsing recommendations for additional planning and appropriate follow-up in the area of youth.

“The first time International Youth Day was celebrated in the year 2000,12 August. So, this is the 25th anniversary of International Youth Day.”

Significance of International Youth Day 

Every year on August 12, we mark International Youth Day, which brings attention to concerns about youth and recognizes their potential as collaborators in the modern global community. The following five points highlight its importance:

• Awareness: It draws the world’s attention to concerns about youth.
• Acknowledgment: It honors young people’s capacity to be vital members of society.
• Engagement: It inspires youth to become involved members of their communities.
• Conversation: It fosters cooperation and understanding between generations.
• Action: It serves as inspiration for projects and efforts that deal with issues affecting young people.

How to Honor International Youth Day in 2024

The UN mentions the following ways to celebrate International Youth Day 2024:

• Educative radio program: Speak with well-known local or national radio stations to talk about youth contributions with both young people and notable persons.
• A public discussion or debate: Arrange online or in-person gatherings to talk about the contributions that youth make to global challenges.
• Roundtable talks: Encourage conversations between adults and youth that foster understanding between generations.
  Youth forums: discuss cultural backgrounds and share ideas to assist young people accept others and promote a nonviolent culture.
• Virtual concert: If you want to raise awareness of International Youth Day and the Year’s launch, consider inviting local artists to perform alongside a panel discussion or a keynote address from a politician or other influential figure.
• Info point: Place informational booths concerning concerns about adolescents in strategic areas, including town centers, universities, or high schools.
• Exhibition: Plan visual displays that highlight the issues that today’s youth are facing or how they are advancing growth. Engage youth in music, art, and culture to increase awareness of concerns affecting young people.

International Youth Day: Five Facts

• Youth health: International guidelines for school health are being developed by the World Health Organization.
• Childhood hunger: Every year, almost 16 million children in the US face hunger.
• Maintaining fitness: Kids and teenagers should engage in at least an hour of physical activity every day.
• Music that matters: Palestine refugee Mohammed Assaf, the Youth Ambassador, uses his music to inspire hope in the hearts of young Palestine refugees.
• Young entrepreneur: Rita Kimani, a 25-year-old Kenyan, is a co-founder of FarmDrive, a platform that links finance to underserved smallholder farmers without access to banks.
  

Conclusion

Let’s take a moment on this International Youth Day to honor the accomplishments of youth everywhere and pledge our support for their aspirations. As Nelson Mandela once said, “The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow.” It’s time to acknowledge that kids are already forming the world they will lead.

Though each young person has potential, the hurdles are also enormous. Let’s support and enable them to use their energy, imagination, and commitment to create a world that is not only sustainable but also fair and just for everybody.

Happy International Youth Day! Let’s honor the leaders of today and the future who are paving the path for a more promising future.

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