The International Youth Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a crucial opportunity to reflect on the strides young people have made globally and explore how they can leverage digital know-how to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Every year, on August 12, the United Nations celebrates International Youth Day to honor the efforts of youth in enhancing global society.
This day also serves as a call to action, urging young people to become more actively involved in making meaningful contributions to their communities.
This year’s theme, “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,” is especially poignant as we race towards the 2030 deadline for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The role of young people in digital innovation is more critical than ever.
By celebrating and amplifying their digital contributions, the world can foster even greater innovation and collaboration, driving us closer to achieving sustainable development.
The Rising Digital Generation
Africa, with its youthful population, stands at the cusp of a digital transformation. The continent is home to the world’s youngest population, with 60% of its 1.2 billion people under the age of 25. This demographic presents an incredible opportunity. In 2022, three-quarters of those aged 15 to 24 were already using the internet—a rate higher than any other age group. This growing digital adoption positions Africa’s youth as key players in the global digital economy.
However, disparities remain, particularly in low-income regions where access to the internet and digital skills is still limited. Young women, in particular, face significant barriers to accessing technology. Yet, with the right support and resources, Africa’s youth can overcome these challenges and harness digital tools to drive sustainable development.
The Power of Digital Platforms
Digital platforms offer African youth unprecedented opportunities to engage with the SDGs, providing tools that facilitate the dissemination of information, creativity, collaboration, and community engagement. Here are some of the ways digital technology is empowering Africa’s young people to lead the charge toward sustainable development:
Enhancing Education and Awareness
Digital tools have revolutionized education, making it more accessible and inclusive across Africa. Online courses, webinars, and virtual classrooms have shattered geographical barriers, allowing young people in remote areas to access quality education. Platforms like Coursera, Khan Academy, and EdX offer affordable courses on various subjects, including sustainable development, enabling African youth to gain critical skills that can be applied to solve local and global challenges.
Social media is also a powerful tool for raising awareness about the SDGs. Youth-led campaigns on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok have reached millions, spreading knowledge on issues like climate change, gender equality, and poverty. By creating engaging content, African youth are not only educating their peers but also inspiring collective action.
Promoting Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Digital technology has opened new avenues for entrepreneurship, allowing young Africans to develop innovative solutions to global challenges. E-commerce platforms like Jumia and Shopify empower young entrepreneurs to sell sustainable products across the continent and beyond. Crowdfunding platforms such as M-Changa and Kickstarter provide critical funding for youth-led initiatives that address social and environmental issues.
Moreover, hackathons and innovation challenges organized by entities like the United Nations, Google, and African tech hubs are encouraging young minds to develop tech-based solutions for the SDGs. These events promote creativity and collaboration, bringing together diverse perspectives to tackle pressing problems.
Facilitating Community Engagement and Advocacy
Digital platforms are also instrumental in fostering community engagement and advocacy across Africa. Online petitions, virtual town halls, and social media campaigns give young people a voice in critical issues and influence policy decisions. Platforms like Change.org and Avaaz are mobilizing support for causes ranging from climate action to human rights, proving that the youth can be a powerful force for change.
Leveraging Technology for a Sustainable Future
As Africa moves towards a more sustainable future, the potential of its youth to drive digital innovation is limitless. By leveraging digital tools, enhancing youth education, promoting entrepreneurship, and facilitating community engagement, African youth can lead the charge in solving the continent’s most pressing challenges.
However, to realize this potential, it is crucial to continue supporting and empowering young people in their digital journeys. Governments, private sector partners, and international organizations must work together to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that all young Africans have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.
Africa’s youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the innovators of today. With the right support, they can transform the continent and the world, proving that the journey from clicks to progress is one that we can all embark on together.
Here is a line up of opportunities you can grab in celebrating today:
