Which issues are we concentrating on?
Soft Skills
Surveys conducted by the World Bank in 2020 showed that only 39% of youth in middle-income countries participate in job training, and the number drops significantly in low-income countries. This limits exposure to crucial soft skill development.
Global studies report rising mental health concerns among youth due to academic pressure, societal expectations, and fear of failure. This can hinder the development of critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration skills.
Mental Well-being
According to the WHO, depression and anxiety are among the leading causes of disability in adolescents and young adults globally. In 2021, an estimated 13% of adolescents (aged 10–19) experienced some form of mental health disorder.
A 2022 study by the Mental Health Innovation Network found significant stigma surrounding mental health in many cultures, leading to underdiagnosis and undertreatment. Only a small fraction of young people with mental health problems receive professional help.
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly exacerbated existing challenges, leading to increased social isolation, economic hardship, and mental health problems among youth.
