Letters

World Youth Skills Day

YMCA calls for everyone to support and encourage our young people in learning

Sat Jul 15 2023 - 01:20

Sir, – Today, July 15th, is World Youth Skills Day.

The theme for this year is “Skilling teachers, trainers and youth for a transformative future”.

There are many opportunities and challenges that young people face, particularly in areas of work, and although there is a strategic importance of equipping young people with skills for employment, it is equally important that we equip them with skills for life.

Problem-solving, communication and social skills are essential. We need to provide our young people with skills that help them actively engage in their local communities and beyond.

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At YMCA Dublin, we are passionate about encouraging our youth to do their best in life, and supporting them to obtain the necessary skills to do so.

In recent years, we have developed Réidh, a skills-acquisition and employment programme, which helps 18-30 year olds in seeking guidance and skills growth for their career paths.

Our YMCA Youth Work team support young people from the age of 10 in engaging in activities which encourage personal growth and developing life skills, with different programmes for leadership, personal and skills development through outdoor activities and clubs.

As chief executive of YMCA Dublin, I have seen firsthand the impact that these positive influences and encouragement can have on our young people’s confidence and skill sets.

This World Youth Skills Day, I urge everyone to support and encourage our young people in learning and developing new, lifelong skills.

Young people are catalysts for change and together we can empower our youth.

Together, we can support and encourage them to be part of a positive change for a transformative future. – Yours, etc,

KATHRYN O’MAHONY,

Chief executive,

YMCA Dublin,

Dublin 8.