World Youth Skills Day

World Youth Skills Day History

World Youth Skills Day (WYSD) is an annual event aimed at raising awareness of the importance of equipping young people with relevant skills to prepare them for the job market. The United Nations General Assembly designated this observance in 2014, recognizing that supporting the youth contributes to reducing unemployment, underemployment, and inequality while also strengthening social cohesion and our collective economic and social development.

As a highly developed nation with a thriving economy, Canada faces unique challenges and opportunities concerning youth skill development. While providing ample educational opportunities for its citizens, sectors like manufacturing, technology, and sustainability demand highly skilled workers. Supporting the goals and initiatives of WYSD helps ensure that Canadian youth are well-prepared for the evolving demands of local and global industries, leading to a prosperous and sustainable national future. This resonates with Canada’s commitment to inclusive and accessible education, with a particular emphasis on underrepresented groups such as Indigenous and remote communities.

In Canada, World Youth Skills Day is observed annually on July 15. Various skills-focused activities aimed at youth are organized by local and national organizations, educational institutions, and the government, seeking to inform and engage young Canadians in exploring their career options. Through these events, Canadian society aims to foster an increased importance on the growth of the younger generation, while encouraging collaboration between stakeholders in education, training, and employment sectors.

World Youth Skills Day facts

• The theme for World Youth Skills Day in 2022 was Learning and skills for life, work, and sustainable development.
• UNICEF reports that 9 out of 10 adolescent girls and young women are offline in low-income countries.
• According to UNICEF’s Recovering Learning report, only a quarter of young people are on track to acquire job-specific skills
• Canada has one of the highest post-secondary education enrollment rates among OECD countries, with approximately 60% of Canadians aged 25-34 having attained post-secondary education.
• Youth unemployment in Canada has been a concern in recent years, with the youth unemployment rate at approximately 12% compared to the national average of around 6%.

In the News and Trending in Canada for World Youth Skills Day

Top things to do in Canada for World Youth Skills Day

• Learn more about the issues surrounding youth unemployment. This infographic from the International Labour Organization goes into detail about why more than 200 million young people are either unemployed, or have a job but live in poverty.
• Review current job listings to check their requirements. By understanding whether or not jobs are requiring new skills, you can help friends and family better navigate the workforce. You can also better equip yourself if you are looking for employment.
• Canada has many museums and cultural centers that celebrate the country's history and diversity. Visiting one of these institutions can give you a better understanding of Canada's heritage and help you develop skills such as cultural awareness and sensitivity.
• Many trade shows are held in Canada throughout the year, showcasing the latest products and technologies in various industries. Attending a trade show can give you an opportunity to learn more about these industries and the skills required to work in them.