Importance of vocational and technical education for youths underscored

Speakers at a discussion on Friday underscored the importance of vocational and technical education in ensuring the productivity and success of the youth population, which is projected to constitute 57 per cent of the global population by 2030.
 
This deliberation took place as part of the events leading up to the observance of International Youth Day 2023, scheduled on August 12, across the world.
 
Light House, a local non-governmental organisation (NGO) dedicated to the welfare of women, children, and youths, with the support of USAID and Pathfinder organised the discussion programme held at the Shishu Kallyan Parishad Auditorium in the city.
 
The theme for International Youth Day 2023 is 'Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World'.
 
Md Harun-Ar-Rashid, the executive director of Light House, delivered the keynote address.
 
He highlighted that teenagers and young adults currently constitute 37.71 per cent, or 62.28 million, of the total population of 169 million.
 
Notably, he emphasised that the global population under the age of 35 is projected to reach 57 per cent by 2030.
 
Given the challenges posed by the burgeoning youth population, he stressed the importance of creating opportunities in productive sectors to secure a prosperous future for the nation.
 
Mursalin Nomani, president of Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU), conveyed that both vocational and technical education should be made accessible to millions of youths, taking into consideration their potential in various sectors.
 
He advocated for technical and vocational education as a means to nurture a skilled generation that can contribute positively to the nation's progress instead of becoming a burden.
 
The UN in its website stated that the world is embarking on a green transition. 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).

Green skills are “knowledge, abilities, values and attitudes needed to live in, develop and support a sustainable and resource-efficient society,” said UN.
 
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also shared his perspective on the UN website, stating, "Humanity's progress relies on the limitless energy, innovative ideas, and contributions of youth around the world. Today and every day, let us rally behind and stand alongside young individuals as they shape a fair and sustainable world that benefits both people and the planet."
 
[email protected]