“Skills development reduces poverty and better equips young people to find decent jobs. It triggers a process of empowerment and self-esteem that benefits everyone.”
— UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon
July 15th, World Youth Skills Day, an initiative proposed by draft resolution by Sri Lanka and adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2014. High youth unemployment often means being unable to escape the effects of poverty, and affects entire families, communities and nations. The acquisition of skills by youth is vital to overcoming the poverty trap. Skills improves job prospects, education levels, increases confidence and ultimately improves lives.
Education and better job opportunities rate as the top priorities for youth, yet youth make up 40% of the unemployed (around 74 million people aged 15-24). In developing countries, 66% of youth are without work and also not studying, making it even harder for today’s youth to look forward to bright, positive futures.
The key to providing futures to today’s youth is to enhance youth employability. The Hope Foundation believes education is the passport out of poverty, and the key to improving futures for all. For adolescents and young adults that have left or never received formal education, HOPE offers Life Skills and Vocational Training through our Life Skills Training Institute – skills that enable independent living, improve quality job prospects, and improve self-confidence.
Vocational and technical training courses include:
- Catering & Hospitality
- Computers & IT
- Clothing Design (tailoring, embroidery, knitting)
- Hair & Beauty
- Video & Photography
The professionally designed and run courses are offered as internships, with each student receiving job placement upon completion of their chosen course.
The Hope Foundation is proud to support the second annual World Youth Skills Day, and will continue to offer the youth of today opportunities to improve their futures for themselves and their families. Click here to read more about HOPE’s work in Life Skills & Vocational Training, or click here to make a donation towards our Life Skills training costs.
