Promoting Skills for Peace and Development

The theme for the 2024 World Youth Skills day was: Youth Skills for Peace and Development. It’s a call to recognize the vital role that young people play, not only in adapting to the ever-changing job market but in shaping a world that values peace and sustainable growth.

Events organized by UNESCO-UNEVOC brought together the voices of 28 young people from 26 countries, online and in person. Each of them shared their own perspective on their contribution to peace and global citizenship, the importance of green skills, and their participation in social-emotional learning activities. Their discussions, grounded in the realities of their lives, emphasized the indispensable role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in preparing today’s youth for a future filled with challenges — and opportunities. Experts and high-ranking officials from UNESCO, UNESCO-UNEVOC, UN Volunteers and WorldSkills International added their voices, underscoring the importance of these conversations.

Screenshot from recording "Gen Z Insider's Guide: Navigating the Modern World"

The need for inclusive and responsive systems

One of the most profound moments of the event came during a discussion about dual vocational systems, which blend theory with practical experience: As Kanis Fatama Fatiha Jabin put it: “We need to see that we combine theory with practice in everything that we do in order to drive sustainable economic growth.” In the discussion, the call for vocational education that’s accessible to all resonated deeply. It’s this system, participants argued, that equips youth with the tools to navigate the rapid changes of the modern world. Yet, the conversation didn’t stop at work skills. It dove deeper, addressing mental health concerns faced by Gen Z — a generation born into an age of digital connectedness and social media. There was an urgent call for stronger support systems and a recognition that mental well-being is as critical to success as technical knowledge.

The theme of inclusion also emerged as central, particularly when discussions turned to women in STEM. Breaking gender stereotypes, encouraging entrepreneurship, and supporting the drive for meaningful change became key talking points. Gen Z, it was clear, craves not only flexible work environments but jobs that align with their passions. As Lina Pickhardt put it: “A lot of people actually start by volunteering in an organization that they love, that creates change, and then they move into a permanent position. It's a movement that their career choices are passion driven.” Another clear result from the discussion: Youth have a genuine desire to leave a positive impact on a world troubled by climate change and global injustice.

The event wasn’t just about conversations—it was a rallying cry for greater support. A holistic approach to education, mental well-being, and career readiness was deemed essential for young people who are eager to play their part in shaping a more peaceful and sustainable future.

Youth voices from around the world

Behind these powerful discussions were the personal stories of young people from every corner of the globe who shared their perspective via video contributions:

Caroline Arielo from Kenya delivered her story in sign language. With pride, she shared how her vocational training in hairdressing and beauty therapy has allowed her to open her own business. But for Caroline, it’s more than just a business—it’s a way to give back to her community. She trains youth and people with disabilities, empowering them with skills that have transformed her own life. Caroline is also committed to sustainability, recycling bottles into decorative items and reusing water in her salon. The skills she’s gained, from technical know-how to life skills, have given her the confidence to stand tall and face life’s challenges head-on.

From Iraq, Faris Islam Faris, Yareeb Samir Ahmed and Yaroub Younis Mahmoud shared their vision for peace. For them, peace is a world where everyone lives without fear, in an environment where cultural diversity is cherished. As students in construction and agriculture, they’ve taken it upon themselves to integrate environmentally friendly techniques into their work, striving to preserve both their culture and the environment. Faris talked about the importance of self-awareness in decision-making, especially in building relationships and fostering high-quality work. "To build a better world," he reflected, "we must first understand ourselves."

In Australia, Jay Chew is leading a sustainability project with high school students. His goal is ambitious: to reduce waste production by 30%. Jay’s approach isn’t just about waste management; it’s about instilling a sense of responsibility in the next generation. He encourages his students to reflect on their carbon footprints and equips them with the skills to contribute independently. This, for him, is the heart of sustainability—teaching self-awareness alongside practical action.

Sophia Mauia from India shared about the transformative power of vocational training. Through her training, Sophia has learned not only IT and employability skills but also how to manage her emotions and make mindful decisions. Before her training, she wasn’t as assertive or self-aware. Now, equipped with these life skills, she feels more confident in facing difficult situations.

These stories, and many more like them, are at the heart of World Youth Skills Day. They remind us that youth across the globe are not just the future—they are the present, working tirelessly for a more inclusive, peaceful, and sustainable world.

Access recordings and other resources

Visit UNESCO-UNEVOC’s World Youth Skills Day page for

• a recording of the event “Building an equitable and inclusive future of work that fosters peace, global citizenship, and sustainable development”
• a recording of the event: “Gen Z Insider's Guide: Navigating the Modern World”
• presentation slides on the Youth Skills survey 2024 and
• a recording of the event “AI Skills for the Future of Work. UNESCO Global Skills Academy Session on WYSD 2024”
• a lot more inspiring Youth Voices