IYC Panel: Role of Youth in Achieving the SDGs in South Asia
Impact Snapshot
Beneficiaries: 120 Attendees
Location: New York City
Timeline: Sep. 20 2023
Partners: GNVOY, IYC
SDG Alignment: SDG 4
Impact Summary
In Session 36 of the International Youth Conference 8th Edition, the panel brought together experts to discuss the critical role of South Asian youth in advancing Sustainable Development Goals:
Education as a Driving Force for Sustainable Development
The panelists highlighted how education plays a crucial role in sustainable development. They talked about making quality education inclusive and equitable (aligned with SDG 4) and its impact on societal progress. The discussion explored different initiatives aimed at improving access to education, especially for marginalized and underrepresented communities. The panelists saw education as key to empowering young people to make a meaningful contribution to sustainable development.
Empowering Youth in Decision-Making
A major focus of the session was on empowering youth. The panelists shared their views on how young people can have a more active role in decision-making at local and regional levels. They stressed the importance of giving youth platforms to express their opinions, participate in policy-making, and lead projects that cater to their specific needs and goals. The discussions acknowledged the youth not just as beneficiaries but as vital contributors to sustainable development.
The Value of Regional Collaboration
The importance of collaboration across the South Asian region in achieving the SDGs was another critical point of discussion. Panelists from different countries shared their successful practices and experiences, emphasizing how working together can amplify sustainable development efforts. They showcased various joint projects and networks that have effectively addressed common regional challenges, demonstrating the strength of collective action.
Tackling Unique Challenges in South Asia
The session also provided an opportunity to address the unique challenges faced in the South Asian context. The panelists examined social, economic, and political barriers to sustainable development in the region. They brought up issues like social inequality, economic disparities, political instability, and cultural hurdles, discussing their impact on the progress of SDGs. The panel aimed to identify innovative solutions and strategies specific to these regional challenges.
Gallery
SDG Alignment
4.1: Ensure complete, equitable, and quality primary and secondary education.
4.7: Promote sustainable development education, including human rights, gender equality, and a culture of peace.
Context
Role of South Asian Youth in Achieving the SDGs was the 36th Session at the 8th edition of the International Youth Conference (IYC8). This session provided a platform for five panelists to share their unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions toward sustainable development in South Asia:
Sushmita Shekar (Moderator): Urban Designer/Strategist; Consultative Delegate to UN ECOSOC; Board Member, Asia Initiatives.
Zoya Dhakam (Pakistan): Educationist and IAAI Youth Representative.
Heet Dholakia (India): Member of the Board of Directors, Dholakia Foundation.
Pradip Pariyar (Nepal): Representative, Dalit Lives Matter Global Alliance.
Lamar Zala Gran (Afghanistan): Founder and President, Empowering Afghan Women.
Anil Wasif (Bangladesh): Co-Founder & Director of Strategy, BacharLorai.
ICY8 held at the AFS Headquarters in New York City, focused on "Empowering Youth for Sustainable Development Goals: From Discussion to Innovation, Inclusion, and Action."
Coinciding with the SDG Summit and UNGA 78, IYC8 provided a hybrid forum that brought together young leaders, thinkers, and change-makers from around the globe.
The conference focused on translating discussions into tangible actions and strategies for sustainable development, with a particular emphasis on inclusivity, collaboration, and innovative solutions.
Through various sessions, including the notable Session 36 focusing on South Asia, IYC8 underscored the integral role of youth in driving the agenda for a sustainable and equitable future.
The International Youth Conference (IYC) represents a significant collaboration between the Civil Society Unit of the Department of Global Communications (DGC), Generation Next Network, a youth-led NGO based in NYC, UN-Habitat, and the UN International Organization for Migration (UN IOM).
