World Youth Skills Day, marked each year on 15 July and celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2025, is shining a spotlight on the growing importance of digital and artificial intelligence (AI) skills. This year’s theme reflects the pivotal role these technologies play in shaping the future of work and society.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres, in his message for the occasion, said that skills are not simply tools but engines of opportunity, enabling young people to shape their futures and build more inclusive, peaceful and sustainable communities. He emphasised the wide spectrum of skills—from traditional knowledge and creative arts to community leadership—while highlighting the increasing importance of digital and AI capabilities. From basic digital literacy to advanced data science, such skills are now essential for young people to thrive.
However, Guterres stressed that access to these opportunities must be universal. Closing the digital divide remains a pressing challenge to ensure that all young people—regardless of gender, geography or background—can realise their potential. He called for a human-centred approach to digital education that fosters not only technical skills but also creativity, critical thinking and compassion. As AI reshapes societies, he urged a view of young people not only as learners but as co-creators of a fair digital future.
The focus on AI and youth skills comes as the Fourth Industrial Revolution continues to transform economies, redefining both work and education. Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) systems must evolve to keep pace, equipping young people with future-ready skills. AI is already transforming education through tools such as intelligent tutoring systems, virtual and augmented reality, and personalised learning, making skills development more accessible and engaging.
Yet the rapid adoption of AI also brings risks. Without a focus on equity and inclusivity, the digital divide could deepen, widening existing social and economic inequalities.
World Youth Skills Day was established in 2014 by a United Nations General Assembly resolution, introduced by Sri Lanka, to underline the importance of skills development in promoting employment, decent work and entrepreneurship for young people. The event remains a key platform for highlighting how youth skills drive not only economic growth but also peace and sustainable development.
Organisations such as UNESCO-UNEVOC and WorldSkills continue to celebrate the day, championing the value of AI and digital skills in empowering youth worldwide. They advocate for education that combines technological excellence with human values, preparing young people to lead in an increasingly digital world. Looking ahead, the challenge lies in creating inclusive, adaptive education systems that guarantee all young people can gain the digital and AI skills needed to succeed. By investing in such learning environments, the UK and other nations can strengthen their positions as leaders in responsible AI, fostering a future where youth empowerment and technological progress go hand in hand.
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