Every year on August 12th, the world comes together to celebrate International Youth Day, and to appreciate all the collective efforts young beings put together to make this planet thrive. This day is a tribute to the young people who invest their energy, youthful ideas, creativity, enthusiasm, and potential in society to modify it and to make it more sustainable, innovative, and peaceful. This is not just a day of celebration but also a good chance to spotlight their past campaigns and to call juvenile minds for action.

Youth play a pivotal role in achieving successful outcomes in society. These backbone elements are the real soul of the community. Investing energy and effort in them today means building a stronger tomorrow. Empowering youth means giving them the tools, education, and opportunities they need to thrive and lead effectively.

The theme of International Youth Day 2024 is, “Youth Empowerment for a Sustainable Future”. A sustainable future is strongly associated with addressing climate change, which has become a critical issue in recent years. Therefore, the role and sterling efforts of youth are crucial in combating the climate crisis.

There are several challenges faced by youth today, which include lack of equal opportunities, difficulty in accessing educational facilities, high rates of youth unemployment, peer pressure and discrimination, and psychological struggles. We need to pay heed to these concerns and to introduce certain platforms that engage the youth in sustainable environmental practices, mental rehabs, pathways for entrepreneurship, and ensuring access to inclusive and equitable education. We need to take measures to sensitize society and the youth as well about the importance and strength of innovative ideas, mentorship, and the power of collective action to drive positive change and sustainable development. This can be done by organizing awareness sessions and events, inclusive activities for elderly people and youth, and advocating policies that promote youth rights.

The enthusiasm and vigor of young individuals should be actively nurtured and supported. It is essential to provide young minds with sufficient opportunities to highlight their skills and talents.

About the Author: Aliza Aziz, a distinguished Environmental Sciences student, is renowned for her unwavering commitment to environmental conservation. With a notable portfolio encompassing projects spanning plastic pollution control, research endeavours, tree plantation initiatives, clean-up campaigns, and community service engagements, she exemplifies diligence and dedication.