As we begin the bright month of September, we can’t forget to once again give a shoutout to all the young people all over the world, as on the 12th of August, we celebrated the vibrant young people with a potential to shape our world. At the recent World International Youth Day, we got to turn the spotlight to the importance of green skills, a pathway that not only empowers youths with knowledge but also equips them with the tools to create sustainable change in their communities. And as we continue to grapple with environmental challenges, the fusion of youthful energy and green skills will definitely become a beacon of hope that we can use to engender a just society.
Young people, a catalyst for change
Creating a pathway for a sustainable future requires people who are equipped with ideas for both short-term and long-term solutions. Hence, the importance of providing young people with green skills. Equipping youths with green skills is paramount as it addresses two critical aspects: environmental sustainability and the empowerment of the next generation. Green skills provide young individuals with the knowledge and tools to comprehend and mitigate sustainability challenges such as environmental issues, social injustice, healthcare issues, etc. By arming them with these skills, we ensure a capable workforce that can develop and implement innovative solutions to safeguard the planet’s future.
SustyVibes is also very passionate about spreading awareness and knowledge of green skills to address socio-environmental issues. Here are some ways in which we do that:
- Training programs: SustyVibes is passionate about improving the knowledge and skills of young people and in doing that we offer training programs through our project Susty Schools that provide young people with the knowledge, skills and awareness in areas such as; waste management, environmental sustainability, etc.
- Workshops and seminars: We also organize workshops and seminars on cogent societal issues that help young people gain more knowledge and practicality around green skills.
- Internship opportunities: SustyVibes is all about growth of young people so we provide internship opportunities for youths, to gain practical experience in green jobs and projects.
- Advocacy and awareness campaigns: We also engage in advocacy and awareness campaigns to sensitize people on issues bordering around sustainability.
We spoke to some inspiring young SustyVibers who have integrated green skills in their daily lives and professional pursuits.
My perspective on green skill is that, I see skill as an ability that is learned to carry out responsibilities and we know green in this context are sustainable and resourceful methods, or ways to reduce environmental impacts and hazards. When you merge it together it just simply means better ways to support the society by being sustainable, while using different abilities and knowledge.
Diwa’a Jirai
I believe green skills are important in our society, especially with the reality of climate change we are witnessing. I abide by my 3 Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. My families and everyone around me have learnt that I don’t tolerate wrong disposal of plastic waste and they’ve learnt to inculcate it too.
Ose
I know that just as “Tech” has become a buzz for young people, “green skills” are very important, if we intend to push sustainability and attain the goal of preserving Mother Earth for future generations. Green skills are non-negotiable, and young people need to jump on this train, harness their talents, learn new skills, and help improve our world. In my work as a facility manager, I ensure wastages are avoided, and plastic is recycled or reused. Personally, I sort waste at home and speak with my friends and colleagues on the importance of practicing a sustainability inclined lifestyle. I also volunteer to causes that are in line with advocating sustainability.
Miriam Ituah
Celebrating World International Youth Day in August illuminated the vital role of green skills in empowering youth for sustainable change. Equipped with knowledge and innovation, young individuals should continuously strive to become catalysts for a greener future, while at SustyVibes we would keep pushing our work further and offer as many opportunities as possible for people to develop their green skill.