International Youth Day is celebrated annually on 12th August to emphasize and highlight the importance of young people in shaping our future. This day is dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributions of youth to various sectors while also addressing the unique challenges they face. International Youth Day emphasizes the need to invest in youth as they are the driving force behind innovation, social progress, and economic growth.
Youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the changemakers of today. With their energy, creativity and resilience, they hold the power and potential to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. By empowering young people and ensuring their active participation in society, we are laying the groundwork for a more just, inclusive, and sustainable future.
When and Why is International Youth Day Celebrated?
International Youth Day was established by the United Nations in 1999 to promote the role of youth in the global community and to address the challenges they face. It is celebrated every year on August 12th to bring attention to the myriad issues affecting young people, from education and employment to mental health and civic engagement. This day provides a platform for governments, organizations, and individuals to come together to discuss policies, share ideas, and develop initiatives aimed at empowering youth and ensuring their full participation in society. By focusing on the challenges faced by young people and exploring solutions, International Youth Day helps to ensure that youth are equipped with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.
2024 Theme: From Clicks to Progress – Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development
The theme for International Youth Day 2024, “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,” aims to highlight the essence of digital age and how it impacts the youth.
The digital revolution has transformed how we communicate, learn, and engage with the world. For young people, digital platforms are not just tools for social interaction but powerful mediums for advocacy, education, and entrepreneurship. This year’s theme emphasizes the importance of moving beyond passive digital engagement to active participation in sustainable development. Digital literacy and access to technology have opened new avenues for youth to contribute to global goals such as climate action, gender equality, and poverty reduction. This also involves equipping young people with the skills and knowledge necessary to harness the full potential of digital technologies for sustainable development.
Youth: The Cornerstone of Growth and Innovation
Youth are often seen as the cornerstone of society, and rightly so. They possess the energy, creativity, and innovation necessary to drive economic, social, and cultural development. In many countries, youth make up a significant portion of the population, and their active participation in all sectors is essential for achieving sustainable growth and development. Young people are not only the workforce of the future but also the innovators and leaders who will shape the world for generations to come. Their ability to think critically, adapt to new technologies, and embrace change makes them uniquely positioned to address the complex challenges facing the world today.
Challenges: Youth Indulgence in Negativity, Drugs, and Other Issues
Despite their potential, many young people today face significant challenges that hinder their ability to contribute positively to society. One of the most pressing issues is the increasing indulgence of youth in negativity, including substance abuse, violence, and other destructive behaviors. The prevalence of drug use among young people is particularly concerning, as it not only affects their health and well-being but also limits their potential for growth and development.
Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach that includes prevention, education, and intervention. It is crucial to provide young people with the tools and resources they need to resist negative influences and make positive choices. This includes promoting healthy lifestyles, fostering resilience, and providing access to mental health services.
Empowering Youth: A Key to a Sustainable Future
Empowering youth is not just a moral obligation but a necessity for building a sustainable future.
Young people represent a significant portion of the global population, and their potential to drive social, economic, and environmental progress is immense. When youth are empowered with education, skills, and opportunities, they can break the cycle of poverty, challenge inequalities, and bring innovative solutions to the table. Empowered youth are more likely to engage in civic activities, contribute to the economy, and advocate for change, thus shaping a world that is more just, inclusive, and resilient.
Dera Sacha Sauda’s Role in Pioneering Changes in Youth Empowerment
In the face of these challenges, Dera Sacha Sauda has taken significant steps to empower youth and guide them towards positive and productive lives. Dera Sacha Sauda, the socio-spiritual organization, has launched several initiatives aimed at youth empowerment, focusing on education, health, and moral values to help the young people realize their potential and contribute to society in meaningful ways.
- DEPTH Campaign: Breaking Free from Addiction with Meditation as the Key
One of the flagship programs of Dera Sacha Sauda is the DEPTH Campaign (Drug Eradication Pan India Through Health and Meditation). This initiative aims to combat drug addiction among youth by promoting meditation as a powerful tool for overcoming substance abuse. Via the spiritual and mental strength gained through meditation, it enables individuals to break free from the grip of addiction without the need for medication or other interventions.
Under the guidance of Saint Dr. Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Ji Insan, millions of young people have quit drugs and alcohol, leading to a significant reduction in substance abuse and the saving of countless lives.
- HEALTH-DELIGHT: “Healthy Minds, Strong Bodies: Empowering Youth Through Sports”
This is another vital initiative focusing on educating the younger generation about the importance of health and well-being. Through sports events and health awareness campaigns, the organization encourages young people to adopt healthy lifestyles and fosters a sense of mutual cooperation for a better society. Youngsters learn various skills and sports from their ‘Papa Coach’, Saint Dr. MSG Insan and bring laurels for their nation.
- AN INITIATIVE: Cultivating Values and shielding Youth from AIDS and Unethical Behavior
Dera Sacha Sauda has also taken a proactive role in addressing social issues through initiatives like AN INITIATIVE, which spreads awareness about the dangers of AIDS and promotes moral values among the youth. By organizing seminars and awareness campaigns, the organization helps to combat the stigma associated with AIDS and encourages responsible behavior.
- DIGNIFIED HUMANISM: Shaping Ethical Youth for a Safer Society
This initiative focuses on preventing unethical behavior, such as eve-teasing and harassment. Through counseling and education, the organization works to instill a sense of respect and dignity among young people, promoting ethical conduct and fostering a safer and more respectful society.
- CAREER GUIDE: Guiding and Helping Youth Find Their Path to Success
CAREER GUIDE is an initiative designed to provide career counseling to students who are unsure about their future paths.
Free career counselling camps are organized occasionally, offering guidance based on individual capabilities and interests, thereby helping young people make informed decisions about their careers and setting them on a path to success and fulfillment.
- SELF-RELIANCE: Empowering Independence and turning Dreams into Reality for the Unemployed
SELF-RELIANCE is a program that addresses the issue of unemployment by helping young people become self-sufficient. Through training and support, the organization assists individuals in finding jobs or starting their own businesses, thereby contributing to economic development and reducing poverty.
- Bud of Knowledge: Education for Empowering and Cultivating Potential in Every Child
This initiative focuses on education as a fundamental aspect of youth empowerment., Dera Sacha Sauda volunteers spare time from their work schedules and provide free education to needy children, especially girls. They also offer career counseling to help students harness their talents and achieve their goals, ensuring that they are well-prepared for the challenges of the future.
- Meditation: Transforming Youth Through the Power of Meditation
In today’s fast-paced world, many young people struggle with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress. The pressures of modern life, coupled with negative influences from digital media and social networks, can lead to a pervasive sense of negativity among youth. Dera Sacha Sauda addresses this issue through the promotion of meditation, which has been shown to have profound positive effects on mental health and well-being.
Meditation helps young people develop a calm and focused mind, allowing them to approach challenges with a positive attitude and enhanced productivity. The practice of meditation, as taught by Saint Dr. MSG, has transformed the lives of millions, helping them overcome negative thoughts and behaviors and leading to a life filled with happiness and purpose.
Empowering the youth: A Collective Responsibility for a Brighter Future
The youth of today are the leaders, innovators, and changemakers of tomorrow. Their role in driving sustainable development and societal progress cannot be overstated. As we celebrate International Youth Day, it is crucial to recognize that empowering youth is not just about providing them with opportunities—it’s about nurturing their potential, guiding their aspirations, and supporting their journey toward becoming responsible and active citizens.
As individuals, communities, and nations, we must commit to guiding our youth, empowering them to make informed decisions, and encouraging them to harness their energy and creativity for the greater good. By doing so, we pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future where the next generation can thrive and continue the work of building a world that is equitable, peaceful, and prosperous for all.
