YOSPIS Celebrates Youth Skills Day 2024 in Kano
The Youth Society for the Prevention of Infectious Diseases and Social Vices (YOSPIS) proudly joins the global community in celebrating Youth Skills Day 2024. This year’s theme, “Empowering Youth for a Sustainable Future,” highlights the importance of equipping young people in Kano with the necessary skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
In a statement Signed by Zainab Nasir Ahmad, Executive Director, YOSPIS on Wednesday said, YOSPIS, a youth-led organization dedicated to promoting the well-being of young people, has been active in Kano State for over 25 years.
This year’s Youth Skills Day emphasizes the crucial role of youth skill development in addressing global challenges and achieving sustainable development.
Read part of the statement below:
Empowering the Next Generation in Kano
Youth Skills Day was established by the United Nations in 2014 to raise awareness about the significance of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in fostering youth employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship. This day serves as a platform to highlight the vast potential of young people in Kano to contribute to the economic, social, and environmental well-being of their communities.
In 2024, the focus is on sustainable development and the pivotal role that youth play in driving positive change. As the world faces pressing challenges such as climate change, technological advancements, and economic shifts, it is crucial to empower young people in Kano with the skills they need to innovate, adapt, and lead.
Young people are often at the forefront of social movements, advocating for justice, equality, and human rights, yet they are frequently the victims of underdevelopment. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a roadmap for addressing global challenges and achieving a more sustainable future. Youth are key stakeholders in this agenda, as they are both beneficiaries and agents of change. Investing in youth education, skills development, and entrepreneurship not only empowers individuals but also fuels economic growth and social change.
Call to Action for Kano State
YOSPIS calls on the Kano State government, NGOs, and stakeholders to partner and prioritize youth in technology and innovation, digital literacy, and coding. These initiatives, such as innovation hubs and mentorship programs, can nurture young innovators to tackle complex development issues. Key areas of focus include:
– Education and Skill Development:
Improve educational infrastructure and establish vocational training centers to provide practical skills that match the demands of local and global job markets.
– Entrepreneurship and Employment Opportunities: Create start-up incubators and provide funding for young entrepreneurs, and partner with local businesses to create job placement programs for graduates.
– Health and Wellbeing: Improve healthcare facilities and ensure access to mental health services and reproductive health education, and develop sports facilities to promote physical health and teamwork.
– Civic Engagement and Leadership: Establish youth councils at local and state levels to give young people a voice in government decisions, and implement leadership training programs.
– Digital Inclusion: Provide access to digital tools and the internet, and incorporate technology training in schools.
Investing in youth is investing in the future of Kano State. Implementing these initiatives can create a generation of well-educated, healthy, and engaged citizens who will drive the state forward.
Conclusion
As we celebrate Youth Skills Day 2024, YOSPIS urges the Kano State Government to take immediate action on these critical areas for youth development. This reaffirms our commitment to empowering young people in the state through quality education, vocational training, and lifelong learning opportunities. Together, we can build a future where every young person has the skills and opportunities to succeed and contribute to a sustainable and prosperous Kano.
