Jagran Josh
World Youth Day 2023 for Students: Learn here why inclusive education is important for youth empowerment and how to achieve it.
International Youth Day 2023: Throughout the year, we celebrate multiple festivals and days. All these occasions have a unique importance and a reason to be celebrated. On August 12 every year, we celebrate International Youth Day. This day is celebrated to recognise the importance of youth and their potential to bring positive change to society. Let us know about this day.
This year’s World Youth Day 2023 theme is “Green Skills For Youth: Towards A Sustainable World.” 5 Things To Know About Green Skills For Youth
1. Green Skills
2. Youth will endure severe climate events longer.
3. Youth will experience significant changes in economic opportunities.
4. Skills demand is exceeding supply.
5. There are disparities that must be addressed.
Significance of International Youth Day
In 2000, International Youth Day was first initiated by the United Nations with the aim of highlighting the challenges faced by Youth worldwide. This initiative also aims to acknowledge the contribution of young people to the growth and development of society, economic growth, and sustainable development.
Role of Inclusive Education
Inclusive education refers to the holistic growth and development of young students by providing them with quality education. Without considering their abilities, backgrounds, or differences. This aims to develop an environment where youth feel valued, empowered, and respected to learn and thrive.
Inclusive education embraces diversity in all its forms, from ethnicity and culture to socioeconomic status and physical or cognitive abilities. Recognition and celebration of these differences foster a sense of belonging and encourage collaborative learning. It teaches young people not only the subjects in the curriculum but also vital life skills like empathy, respect, and understanding.
Empowering Youth through Inclusive Education
It fosters Social Cohesion
Inclusive education neutralises barriers between students and fosters social cohesion. When young people from different backgrounds came together to learn, they developed a sense of belonging, understanding, and helping each other. This fills the gap between different communities.
Promoting Empathy and Tolerance
Students develop a sense of empathy and tolerance when exposed to different and diverse experiences and viewpoints. These traits are crucial for young people as they navigate an interconnected world and contribute positively to global conversations.
Encouraging Critical Thinking
Inclusive education exposes students to a wide range of ideas and perspectives that encourage critical thinking in them. This provides students with the essential knowledge and skills required to analyse complex issues and make informed decisions.
Prepare Professionally
The modern workplace is diverse and globalised; thus, students should be equipped with important workplace skills to help them adjust and grow. This task is accomplished through inclusive education.
Empowerment of Marginalised Youth
Inclusive education is especially essential for marginalised youth and students, such as those with disabilities or from disadvantaged backgrounds. It provides them with equal opportunities, enabling them to overcome barriers and fulfil their potential.
Embracing Inclusive Education: A Collective Effort
Developing a system of inclusive education is not a task that can be achieved by a single person or community. It involves a collaborative effort that will involve various stakeholders like communities, parents, educators, enthusiastic youth, and most importantly, support from the government.
Schools need to develop diverse teaching strategies with effective learning styles and the necessary resources for students. Especially consideration for special students.
Educators should be trained to create inclusive classrooms to support, celebrate, and promote diversity with respect.
The government and other policymakers should ensure a sustainable design for the education system that can support inclusive education. Adequate funding, accessible infrastructure, and comprehensive policies are essential components of fostering inclusive education.
International Youth Day Activities for Students
Check out a few suggestions to celebrate International Youth Day in schools. You can do any of the below-mentioned Youth Day activities to make this day more special.
- Arrange seminars and workshops for students to spread youth awareness of various issues related to them.
- Promote community service activities to develop empathy in students towards people around them.
- Environment-friendly activities will be a great choice as they will go with the International Youth Day 2023 theme, “Green Skills For Youth: Towards A Sustainable World.”
- Organise film screenings on educational topics.
- Tell them about youth icons.
Conclusion
On this International Youth Day 2023, let us remember the importance and need for inclusive education. It is not just a pathway to academic success but a cornerstone of a progressive and harmoniously developed society. Embracing inclusive education will ensure youth empowerment, which will make them active and compassionate citizens who contribute to building a diverse, equitable, and inclusive world.
To know more about International Day 2023, read the report by the Department of Economic and Social Affairs, United Nations.
Happy International Youth Day!
Also read: Self Introduction in English for Students
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