Embracing Technology for a Brighter Future: A Message for International Youth Day

n International Youth Day, we celebrate the energy, creativity, and potential of young people around the world.

This day is a reminder of the importance of empowering the next generation with the skills and tools they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

As technology continues to reshape our lives, it is crucial that we guide and support our youth in using it positively, turning challenges into opportunities and dreams into realities.

When it comes to technology, many parents are understandably concerned about how their children might misuse it.

The fear of exposure to inappropriate content, addiction, and the potential negative impacts on social skills often dominate the conversation.

However, as a parent who has always been pro-tech, I believe that the key lies not in avoiding technology but in guiding our children towards using it for good.

Technology is an incredible tool, and when used with the right direction, it can open doors to creativity, learning, and opportunities that were unimaginable just a few decades ago.

The Slow Pace of Technology Adoption in Schools

While schools and colleges are beginning to integrate technology into their curriculums, the pace of adoption has been slow.

There are several reasons for this: adapting technology on a large scale is expensive, it requires significant investment in infrastructure, and there is a shortage of trained educators who can effectively guide students in using technology.

Moreover, the traditional education system is often resistant to change, favoring tried-and-tested methods over innovative approaches.

This lag in adoption has created a gap between the skills students are acquiring in school and the skills they need to thrive in the digital world.

Organizations Leading the Way

Fortunately, there are organizations that are stepping in to fill this gap, providing young people with the tools and guidance they need to use technology positively.

For example, the Manabu Youth VA Program in Albania is empowering young people by teaching them digital skills that can support their dreams and aspirations.

This program is a beacon of hope for many young individuals who, with the right training, can now access opportunities they never thought possible.

Similarly, Apni PathShala, an initiative by Dr. Malpani, equips young people with digital tools, access to centers, and mentorship that helps them gain the skills necessary for learning and growth.

These initiatives recognize that while academic degrees are important, they are no longer sufficient on their own. The modern job market demands practical skills, adaptability, and a willingness to learn continuously—qualities that traditional education systems often overlook.

The Rise of the Skilled Freelancer

The gap between traditional education and the skills required in the workforce is one of the reasons why we are witnessing a significant rise in freelancing.

Young people who are quicker at acquiring new skills, especially digital ones, have a better chance of building successful careers.

The rise of online learning platforms like YouTube, Coursera, and others has democratized education, allowing anyone with an internet connection to learn anything they want.

This shift has empowered young people to pursue careers in fields that genuinely interest them, rather than being confined to the conventional job roles dictated by their degrees.

The Role of AI in Shaping Future-Ready Youth

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the way we live, work, and learn. For young people, AI offers unprecedented opportunities to be future-ready, equipping them with skills that are in high demand.

From personalized learning experiences to innovative project work, AI is empowering kids to explore the latest tools and technologies, allowing them to become not just consumers, but creators of the future.

For instance, learners today can leverage AI-driven platforms to learn coding, design, and problem-solving in ways that are tailored to their individual learning styles.

This personalized approach helps them grasp complex concepts more effectively, and at their own pace.

Thanks to experts like Arta Statovci who is conducting AI bootcamps in different parts of the world and encourging young people to adapt to technology.

Young innovators are now using AI to create apps, design games, and even develop solutions to real-world problems.

This hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology not only enhances their technical skills but also fosters creativity, critical thinking, and a mindset geared

towards continuous learning and adaptation—essential traits for the jobs of tomorrow.

#RritaCanolli Shares her digital learning experiences.

#AtharvaKumar shares his digital learning experiences.

#MayaGerdes shares her digital learning experiences.

The Need for Guidance and Mentorship

However, as powerful as technology is, young people still need guidance and mentorship to navigate it effectively.

It’s not just about having access to digital tools—it’s about knowing how to use them creatively, responsibly, and effectively.

This is where the role of parents, educators, and organizations becomes crucial.

By providing the right direction and support, we can help our children harness the power of technology to create, innovate, and build the skills they need to succeed in the future.

In conclusion, while the integration of technology in education is still a work in progress, the rise of programs like Manabu VA Youth Program and Apni Pathshala shows that we are moving in the right direction.

As parents, educators, and society as a whole, we must embrace technology, not fear it.

By guiding our children and providing them with the right tools and mentorship, we can empower them to use technology for good, helping them turn their dreams into reality.

The future belongs to those who are not only skilled but also creative, innovative, and capable of using technology to make a positive impact on the world. Let's help our young people become just that.