International Youth Day

On 17th December 1999 in its resolution the United Nations General Assembly endorsed the recommendation made by the World Conference of ministers responsible for youth that 12 August be declared “International Youth Day”. International Youth Day is celebrated annually on 12th August to bring youth issues to the attention of the international community and to celebrate the potential of youth transforming food systems. The theme of International Youth Day 2021 is “Transforming food systems, youth innovation for human and planetary health” with the aim of highlighting that the success of such a global effort will not be achieved without the meaningful participation of young people.

It has been acknowledged that there is a need for inclusive support mechanisms that ensure youth continue to amplify efforts collectively and individually to restore the planet and protect the life while integrating biodiversity in the transformation of food systems. With the world population expected to increase by 2 billion people in the next 30 years it has become recognized by numerous. Stakeholders that simply producing a larger volume of healthier food more sustainably will not ensure human and planetary wellbeing.

The youth lead innovation festival which will take place on August 12-13 2021 the international youth day is celebration of innovative youth led solution for the achievement of the SDGs and recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic. Through youth education, engagement, innovation and entrepreneurial solutions, this year’s international youth day aims to provide a platform for young people to continue the momentum from the EYF in the lead up to the high-level food systems summit.

“The beauty of collaboration between older and younger generations is that we combine strength with wisdom- a surefire way to accomplish more for the glory of god”.

The International Youth Day is dedicated to the role young women and men play in bringing change in tackling global issues and achieving sustainable development. It also serves as an opportunity to raise awareness of challenges and problems facing the world’s youth.