World Youth Skills Day 2019: Learning to Learn for Life and Work

Every year on July 15, UNESCO-UNEVOC joins global celebrations to mark World Youth Skills Day and spread awareness about the importance of youth skills development. Designated by the United Nations General Assembly, the day is an opportunity to highlight the achievements of young people who have benefitted from skills training and call for increased access to quality training and skills development for youth around the globe.

This year’s theme, "Learning to learn for life and work" and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 call on Member States to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all”. Lifelong learning is also essential for the attainment of all other SDGs, including gender equality SDG 5; decent work and economic growth SDG 8; and mitigating the effects of climate change SDG 13

What does TVET offer for youth skills development?

Rapid technological developments, environmental challenges, and demographic shifts are affecting the way we work, live and learn. As transversal skill demands continue to evolve, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) provides a pathway for young people to develop their competencies and transition to the world of work.

Join UNESCO-UNEVOC on World Youth Skills Day to promote ‘Learning to learn for Life and Work’!

As part of UNESCO-UNEVOC's ongoing commitment we invite you to take part in our World Youth Skills Day activities:

1. UNESCO-UNEVOC SkillsInAction Photo Competition

Skills in Action Photo Competition 2019 

2. ‘Inspiring Youth in TVET’ Story Series

The story series highlights individuals identified by UNEVOC Centres who are promoting a positive image of technical and vocational education and training in their community. 

3. Map of UNEVOC Centre activities

UNEVOC Centres were encouraged to organize their own activities to mark World Youth Skills Day. View the map to see how the UNEVOC Network celebrates WYSD.

4. Join the conversation

#WYSD2019

a. Twitter

b. Facebook

UNESCO's engagements on promoting youth and skills

In the context of the Sustainable Development Goals, UNESCO Strategy for TVET (2016-21) and UNESCO’s Recommendations concerning TVET are some of the key instruments stimulating global action and promoting youth employment and entrepreneurship. The UNESCO-UNEVOC Medium Term Strategy II also places youth employment as a core thematic priority.

Learn more

1. UNESCO-UNEVOC World Youth Skills Day 2019

2. UN World Youth Skills Day Homepage

3. UN Resolution on World Youth Skills Day

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