Commonwealth countries record 2.6% improvement in youth development

The Commonwealth countries have recorded a 2.6% improvement in youth development, as highlighted in the recently released Global Youth Development Index report. Patricia Scotland, the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, discussed the importance of investing in the youth and the strategies being implemented to address key issues such as infrastructure, energy, and education, during an interview on CNBC Africa. As the Commonwealth comprises 56 countries, Scotland emphasized the collective effort being made to assist the 1.5 billion young people within the member nations. She stressed that investing in the youth is crucial for rapid economic development, citing the success seen in countries across the Commonwealth, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. The Commonwealth leaders' focus on the youth demographic was highlighted during the last Heads of Government meeting in Kigali, where significant commitments were made to support youth development initiatives. Scotland pointed out the case of Pakistan, a country with a substantial young population, which has made commendable strides in investing in employability. This serves as a testament to the positive outcomes that result from prioritizing youth investment and harnessing their talents. In line with the emphasis on digital technology, the Commonwealth has introduced initiatives such as the AI academy offering courses for young individuals and AI training for leaders. The organization has also conducted an analysis of the digital infrastructure in each member state to bridge the technological divide. The goal is to leverage the potential benefits of AI and digitalization, which are projected to boost the global GDP significantly by 2030. Furthermore, the Commonwealth is actively promoting inter-Commonwealth trade amounting to $800 billion, with aims to increase it to $1 trillion by 2026 and $2 trillion by 2030 through collaborative efforts. By sharing successful strategies and learning from one another, member states are expected to maximize the opportunities presented by new technologies and digital advancements. Addressing concerns regarding job creation and the digital divide, Scotland underscored the importance of investing in fundamental education and skills development for the youth. She highlighted the need to adapt education systems to the requirements of the fourth and fifth industrial revolution, which are centered on digital and technological advancements. Transforming the education landscape to nurture creativity, innovation, emotional intelligence, and adaptability among young individuals is crucial for preparing them for the evolving job market. In conclusion, Patricia Scotland reiterated the significance of global investment in youth development and the pivotal role played by the Commonwealth in tracking progress and sharing best practices. She emphasized the prioritization of health and well-being as fundamental to the overall development agenda, underscoring the collective responsibility in ensuring the success of youth-focused initiatives. The commitment to investing in the youth population today is seen as imperative for securing a thriving future for all Commonwealth nations.