UN Commits to Invest in Development of Green Economy Skills among Youth

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The United Nations Inter Agency Group on Youth has reassured of its commitment to investing in young people in the area of green economy to ensure that attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This was made known at a discussion organised by the UN Information Centre (UNIC), in Abuja, at the weekend, to equip young people with skills for the green economy.

The event with the theme: “Green skills for youth: towards a sustainable world,” was put together to commemorate the 2023 International Youth Day.
Speaking at the occasion, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Resident Representative, Ms. Gifty Addico, said dialogue among youths had shown that sustainable green economy had become important in line with global environmental challenges.
Addico said: “As the world shifts to greener future, green skills are cornerstone of this transition, serving as tools that empower individuals to champion a resource efficient society.

“We are ensuring every interaction brings us closer to sustainable Nigeria, led by youth equipped with right skills.
“Our commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of our youths are embodied in transformative results ending preventable maternal deaths, ending unmet need for family planning, ending gender-based-violence and all harmful practices.
“We are committed to advocating for the rights of young people, empowering them with knowledge and skills to not only protect themselves but enable them make informed decisions.

“So they can realise their full potential and contribute to economic and social transformation.”
On her part, the Deputy Representative of UNICEF, Rownak Khan, described the event as apt as it would further add to resources at ensuring shared future for young people.

She noted that UNICEF remained grateful not just to have chaired the Inter Agency Group, but committed to ensure sustainable future for Nigeria youths.
Khan said: “It is important to come together to build a sustainable future for young people and the green skills basically is very important
“Putting the lens of a climate resilient to work, sustainable employment and sustainable environment as well.

“This is a unique opportunity for all of us to provide adequate skills, so that the skills can be used for them to ensure a resilient future for the next generation.”
For his part, UNFPA Focal Aide for Youth, Mr. Babatunde Adelekan, said the discussion was initiated to inspire youths become skilled in green economy.
He said: “We intend to achieve this by giving young people the necessary information and linking them up with the ecosystem.

“Through opportunities, through training and building up skills, where they are able to utilise the various opportunities that are available.
“The green revolution is something that we must quickly tackle as a country, so that our vibrant, agile youths will be able to harness their full potential.”
Meanwhile, the National Project Officer, Social Protection and Youth Employment, International Labout Organisation (ILO), Segun Tekun, described climate as major problem that hinder development of young people.
He said: “We agreed that climate change is a problem and that young people are the ones mostly impacted by it, we also agreed that there is the need for us to transit to the green economy.

“To transit to the green economy we need to create green jobs, the. In carrying out those jobs we need green skills,”
Highpoint of the event was video presentation on green economy, U-report results on green skills and climate change.

There was also discussion centered on what green skills are, why they are important, green jobs, market development, requirement and career transition.