The Role of NGOs is Empowering Youth on World Skills Day 2025

Celebrating a Decade of Empowering Youth

July 15 2025, marks a decade since the world came together to recognise the transformative power of youth skills. Here is how NGOs are shaping the future—one empowered young person at a time.

When we speak of progress, innovation, and global development, one thing becomes clear: youth are at the heart of it all. They are not just tomorrow’s leaders—they are today’s changemakers, problem-solvers, and creators of opportunity. That is why World Skill Day, observed annually on July 15, is more than a symbolic day on the calendar. It is a global reminder of the importance of equipping young people with the skills they need to thrive in a constantly changing world.

The Significance of World Skill Day

The year 2025 marks the 10th anniversary of World Youth Skills Day, an occasion initiated in 2015 by the United Nations to highlight the importance of skills development for young people. As industries transform and the workplace evolves, empowering youth through practical, relevant, and future-ready skills has never been more critical.

This year, the theme shines a spotlight on “Youth empowerment through AI and digital skills”—a timely and inspiring focus that underlines the urgent need to equip young minds for the future of work. From digital fluency and coding to adaptability and critical thinking, these skills have become essential. 

How NGOs are Driving Youth Empowerment Through Skills

NGOs across the globe, and particularly in India, have long recognised that sustainable development begins with youth empowerment. Their work does not just focus on formal education but extends to holistic skill-building that helps young people become self-reliant, confident, and ready for a digital future.

Here is how NGOs are making it happen:

1. Accessible Digital Training Programmes

Many NGOs are introducing digital literacy modules, coding camps, and online learning platforms to reach underserved communities. These initiatives make it possible for young people to gain digital skills, even in remote or resource-limited environments.

2. Bridging the AI Knowledge Gap

With AI transforming industries at lightning speed, NGOs are creating awareness and upskilling programmes that familiarise youth with AI-driven tools and concepts. These workshops demystify AI, making it an inclusive tool for creativity and innovation.

3. Life Skills for Real-World Success

Beyond technology, NGOs empower youth with essential soft skills, like communication, problem-solving, and financial literacy, that prepare them for the future of work. 

4. Vocational and Entrepreneurial Training

From tailoring and carpentry to mobile phone repair and graphic design, NGOs are supporting young people with practical, income-generating skills. This enables them to become job-ready or start their own small businesses, fuelling local economies and boosting confidence.

But how do we ensure access to such skills reaches everyone, not just those in urban, well-resourced settings? This is where child protection organisations and grassroots NGOs play a pivotal role.

Read more: https://balrakshabharat.org/blog/news/avaya-india-380-find-employment-through-skill-building-programme/ 

Bal Raksha Bharat: Empowering Youth, Changing Futures

Among the many NGOs committed to youth upliftment, Bal Raksha Bharat (also known as Save the Children India) stands out for its focused approach to education and skills development. As a leading child protection organisation, it has been working actively to ensure that children and youth from marginalised communities are equipped with the tools they need to grow, learn, and thrive.

One such example of impact comes from the deltaic islands of West Bengal.

On Sagar Island, 20-year-old Subhankar Bauri found a new direction through a skill-building programme run by Bal Raksha Bharat in partnership with Ramakrishna Mission. Enrolling in a certified Helper Electrical Technician course at a local Multi Activity Centre (MAC), he gained not only technical skills but also vital life skills such as teamwork, communication, and self-confidence.

“The skill-building support along with life skills training has augmented my confidence to venture for alternate income and to sustain my family,” he shares.

This initiative is part of the Skill India Mission and is a testament to how Bal Raksha Bharat is helping young people like Subhankar unlock their potential, lead empowered lives, and become agents of change in their communities.

Why Your Support Matters

While government policies and corporate partnerships play their part, it is the collective support of individuals that fuels long-term impact. Your contribution helps NGOs:

• Expand their reach to more underserved areas

• Provide up-to-date tech tools and resources

• Build training centres and offer mentorship

• Equip youth with skills that can change the course of their lives

Every donation becomes a stepping stone for a young person to discover their potential and shape a better tomorrow.

Summing Up

As we celebrate World Skill Day 2025, it is heartening to see the global momentum around youth empowerment and digital readiness. In just ten years, countless lives have been transformed through access to learning, mentorship, and opportunity.

But there’s more to be done. With AI becoming mainstream and digital transformation touching every aspect of life, the focus must remain on inclusion. Every young person, regardless of where they’re born, deserves a fair shot at success.

NGOs will continue to lead from the front—bridging gaps, unlocking potential, and creating environments where youth are not only skilled, but inspired.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is World Skill Day, and why is it celebrated?

World Skill Day, also known as World Youth Skills Day, is observed on July 15 each year to raise awareness about the importance of equipping young people with the skills they need for employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship. The 2025 theme focuses on AI and digital skills to promote youth empowerment.

2. How do NGOs help in skills development?

NGOs support skill-building through digital training, vocational education, mentorship, and life skills programmes. They often work in areas where formal opportunities are limited, ensuring young people gain practical knowledge aligned with the demands of the future of work.

3. How can I contribute to youth empowerment through NGOs?

You can support the cause by donating, volunteering, or spreading awareness about organisations like Bal Raksha Bharat, which work tirelessly to empower youth with skills and opportunities. Every small effort helps create lasting change.