The increasing prevalence of virtual work has resulted in a widening gap between academia and industry. To bridge this divide, it is essential to prioritise the development of skills and mentorship for young talent. India Skills Report 2022 reveals that just 48.7% of India's youth is employable, meaning that almost half of the country's youngsters are unemployed. Another recent study revealed that approximately 75% of all organisations acknowledged a significant skill gap in the industry, which is the primary cause of the high unemployment rate in India. Therefore, it is crucial to address this issue by focusing on skill development and mentorship programmes that can equip young talent with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the industry.

On the occasion of International Youth Day, it is important to reflect on a subject that lies at the heart of progress and prosperity – the empowerment of our young generation through skill development. As we celebrate this special day, let’s come together to not only celebrate the vibrant energy and enthusiasm of our youth but also to recognize the pivotal role that skill development plays in sculpting their journey towards a brighter future.

Industries around the globe are undergoing seismic shifts, driven by the relentless forces of automation, artificial intelligence, and sustainability. We find ourselves at the precipice of Industry 4.0, a transformative era that promises to reshape the very fabric of our societies, economies, and industries. In this dynamic landscape, the future of skills becomes intrinsically linked to the success and sustainability of these transformative domains. Honeywell, firmly rooted in the principles of engineering excellence, comprehends the pivotal interplay between skill acquisition and the demands of these burgeoning domains. Our journey into the future is marked by a harmonious fusion of technological prowess and innovation, propelling us towards remarkable advancements and shaping the contours of the industries that are yet to unfurl. Our trajectory into the future is intricately woven with threads of automation, artificial intelligence (AI), sustainability, and beyond. These threads are not merely disparate elements but are interwoven facets that define our daily endeavours. The fusion of engineering brilliance with technological breakthroughs, such as AI, lays the foundation for intelligent automation, bestowing upon us enhanced efficiency and precision, and ushering in an era teeming with boundless possibilities.

At its core, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education stands as the cornerstone of innovation, fostering critical thinking, and igniting the flames of curiosity within young minds. As we equip the youth with the mantle of STEM skills, we bequeath them the keys to a future brimming with uncharted potential. In an era where technology serves as the fulcrum of progress, a robust grasp of STEM principles not only enriches minds but also nurtures a generation primed to confront multifaceted challenges.

The only way out is to upskill the working population in order to reap the benefits of the workforce. Keeping this in mind, the Prime Minister announced Skill India in 2015, an initiative aimed at training over 400 million people by 2022. According to research issued by the World Economic Forum in January, investing in upskilling can enhance India's GDP by $570 billion by 2030. It is expected to add 2.3 million jobs by 2030, second only to the United States' 2.7 million. Change in education will help India achieve its goal of not only creating a soaring number of job opportunities for youngsters but also will ensure that the candidates have suitable skill sets to fulfil the requirements.

In India, the deeply entrenched gender inequality that currently spans classes, castes, and communities presents a substantial hurdle. If left unaddressed, this inequality will continue to impede the nation's ability to translate economic growth into comprehensive and inclusive development. However, efforts to overcome these disparities and promote equality will pave the way for a more promising future.

Empowering women in STEM fields will emerge as a pivotal strategy. As women are given equal opportunities and support in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, a fresh wave of diverse perspectives will enrich these industries. This, in turn, will play a significant role in propelling societal progress forward.

As I contemplate the profound significance of International Youth Day, a poignant quote reverberates: "The future belongs to those who prepare for it today." Indeed, our efforts in the realm of skill development are tantamount to investments in a future characterized by innovation, sustainability, and boundless progress. Each skill acquired, every mind illuminated, and every partnership forged contributes to the intricate tapestry of a brighter, more promising tomorrow.