World Youth Skills Day - E&D Theme of the Month

In 2014, the United Nations General assembly declared 15th July as World Youth Skills Day. This day is an opportunity for young people, technical and vocational education and training institutions, and public and private sector stakeholders to acknowledge and celebrate the importance of equipping young people with skills and training for employment.

In 2016 there were 259 million young people classified as NEET: Not in Employment, Education or Training which rose to an estimated 267 million in 2019, and is projected to continue increasing to around 273 million in 2021.

Following the Covid-19 pandemic, young people aged 15-19 are particularly exposed to the socio-economic consequences. School and workplace closures are leading to learning and training losses.

Youth Skills statistics:

- The pandemic has left 1 in 6 young people out of work, according to the International Labour Organization, while those still working have seen their hours drop by an average of 23%.

- Globally, one in five young people are NEET: Not in Employment, Education or Training. Three out of four of young NEETs are women.

- While the youth population grew by 139 million between 1997 and 2017, the youth labour force shrank by 58.7 million.

How can I take part in World Youth Skills Day?

Help spread awareness

Spread knowledge about those who are looking for jobs or education/training. It is also important to spread awareness to others about vocation, and skill-based education, which can make a difference in the employment crisis that currently exists.

Attend a virtual conference

Every year UNESCO-UNEVOC organises a Virtual Conference on Skills for a Resilient Youth for a week.

Join in the movement

Use the hashtag #WYSD or #WYSD2021 on social media to join a global movement for youth and skills and share your story.