International Youth Day on August 12 focuses on the difficulties that some young people are experiencing throughout the world. Worldwide, childhood poverty is a major issue, with half of children between the ages of six and thirteen lacking basic reading and math skills. The UN established International Youth Day in an effort to raise awareness of these problems while we work to find answers. It’s a day for reflection but also a day for taking action so get involved. Explore the cultural events, concerts, and seminars that are scheduled; see what’s going on in your neighborhood. It’s an initiative that recognizes the qualities of youth and the difficulties that today’s emerging youth must overcome.

Access to appropriate resources for education, health, and other needs is crucial for the youth to facilitate the eradication of these problems. International Youth Day began in 2000 and was organized by the UN to recognize the input that young people make in community development, education, environmental groups, and volunteering for different social projects. Universe Public School (CBSE and RBSE)  is thrilled to announce its grand celebration of International Youth Day 2024, a day dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributions and boundless potential of our Youth.

Students will be able to take part in community service initiatives that will help them develop a feeling of global citizenship and social responsibility. The school is dedicated to fostering an inclusive atmosphere where each student’s opinion is respected and heard, making sure that the future generation of leaders has the knowledge and self-assurance to positively influence the world. Join us as we honor and empower the youth at Universe Public School on this special day.

The Theme For International Youth Day 2024 

The Theme for International Youth Day 2024 is ‘From Clicks to Progress; Youth Digital Pathways For Sustainable Development’. This theme focuses on how young people utilize digital technologies to contribute to the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

History of International Youth Day

In 1965 the United Nations General Assembly began making a concerted effort to impact the youth. They endorsed the Declaration on the Advancement of Peace, Mutual Respect, and Intercultural Understanding among Youth. By identifying future leaders and providing them with tools to satisfy global demands, they started investing time and money to empower the youth. On December 17, 1999, the UN General Assembly endorsed the recommendation made by the  World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth and International Youth Day was formed. Since its initial celebration on August 12, 2000, the day has served as a means of educating the public. Encourage young people to get involved in politics and allocate funds to solve global issues.

Major events frequently accompany the day. YOU THINK organized an international youth conference in 2013 that included an awards ceremony and several of important speakers. More recent events have been hosted by the Indian Youth Cafe in Chennai. The Theme for 2019 was “Transforming Education”.

The purpose of this theme was to draw attention to the ways that national and multilateral institutions and processes are enhanced by youth participation at the national and international levels. Another important aim was to draw lessons on how their involvement in institutional politics can be increased.

Significance of International Youth Day 

International Youth Day, celebrated annually on August 12th, holds immense significance for several reasons:

  • It draws attention to the particular difficulties and chances that young people around the world confront.
  • It brings attention to issues like employment, mental health, education, social inclusion, and climate change that impact young people significantly.
  • By bringing attention to these issues, the day starts dialogues, dispels myths, and motivates people to take action for change. 
  • International Youth Day serves as a platform to empower young people and recognize their potential as agents of change.
  • It highlights their creativity, leadership, and innovation in addressing global challenges and contributing to society.
  • On this day, youth are inspired to take charge of their future, stand up for their rights, and engage in decision-making.
  • It encourages communication and cooperation amongst young people from all nations and backgrounds.
  • It provides an opportunity for sharing ideas, experiences, and solutions to common challenges.
  • This international conversation fosters empathy, collaboration, and a feeling of unity among youth worldwide.
  • The day serves as a catalyst for change, encouraging people, businesses, and governmental bodies to promote and fund the projects of young people.
  • It promotes the creation and execution of programs and policies that cater to the needs and goals of youth.

International Youth Day Timeline 

  • 1925 (The Keys to the Club): The Key Club, the oldest youth group, was founded at Sacramento High School to counteract the detrimental impacts of social clubs and fraternities.
  • 1965 (Developing Youth): The United Nations supports youth development through its inaugural “Declaration on the Promotion among Youth of the Ideals of Peace, Mutual Respect and Understanding between Peoples.”
  • 2000 (The U.N. Supports the Youth): After being declared by the UN General Assembly the year before, August 12 is observed as the inaugural International Youth Day.
  • 2019 (The Focus is on Education): The Theme for International Youth Day in 2019 was ‘Transforming Education’. 

How To Celebrate International Youth Day

  • Attend an International Youth Day Event

Attend an International Youth Day. There are sporting events, concerts, mobile exhibitions, and parades that showcase young people’s achievements. You’ll feel inspired by their talent and entertained at the same time.

  • Lend a Helping Hand

Education is the best thing that we can offer kids. Investigate mentoring programs to learn what you can teach the next generation. There are big brother and big sister programs, music programs, assisting with speech therapy, and many more.

  • Have an Intergenerational Discussion

Engage in a roundtable conversation with young people and adults. This can be between children and parents or students, and teachers. Create discussion points centered around the year’s subject and pay close attention to what the younger generation has to say.

5 Facts About International Youth Day 

  • Youth Health

The World Health Organization is developing global standards for health within schools.

  • Childhood Hunger

In the U.S., 16 million children face hunger on a yearly basis. 

  • Staying Fit

Children and adolescents should do an hour or more of physical activity each day.

  • Music that Matters

Mohammed Assaf, the Youth Ambassador, is a Palestinian refugee who uses music to inspire young Palestinian refugees.  

  • Young Entrepreneur

Rita Kimani, a 25-year-old Kenyan, is a co-founder of Farm Drive, a platform that links finance to smallholder farmers who are underserved and unable to access banks.

FAQs

What is International Youth Day?

 International Youth Day is an annual event observed on August 12th, aimed at recognizing and promoting the importance of young people in driving development, social change, and innovation.

What is the theme for International Youth Day 2024?

The Theme for International Youth Day 2024 is ‘From Clicks to Progress; Youth Digital Pathways For Sustainable Development’.

Why is International Youth Day important?

International Youth Day is significant because it draws attention to the essential roles that young people play in society, increases understanding of the problems they encounter, and encourages their active participation in local and global development.

How can schools and communities participate in International Youth Day 2024?

Schools and communities can participate by organizing events such as panel discussions, community service projects, workshops, cultural performances, and exhibitions that celebrate and empower young people.

 How can I get involved in the International Youth Day celebrations?

You can participate by going to the events, offering your time to assist with planning them, taking part in talks and workshops, and raising awareness of the day’s importance.