July 15th is marked as World Youth skill development day.
The United Nations declared it in the year 2014.
As a pediatrician before skill development, I am concerned about youth understanding novelties of this period.
Health: This is the time of rapid growth, the requirement of essential elements increases tremendously. Almost all nutrients are obtained from diet easily, provided it is balanced one; only vitamin D is not available in diet, as its major source is Sun bath. The deficiency of Vitamin D during youth is one of the many causes of irresponsible behavior, experimentation without realizing the consequences and many psychological upsets. Vitamin D plays a major role in normal functioning of the brain. It is a wise decision to test Vitamin D and replenish it on a regular basis by Sun bath and supplements. Many existing diseases increase during youth time; these will be in check when Vitamin D levels are kept normal. Lifestyle changes according to Indian integrated medicine will go a long way in giving youth their optimal potential.
Safety: This is the time when they leave home for higher education. Road accidents, suicidal tendencies, alcohol, smoking, drug addiction, pre-marital sex etc. are dangerous traps in this period. University managers are unable to handle these issues. We are yet to find the right answer for each one of these problems.
Daily routine: Once health and safety issues are taken care of, a good daily routine has to be formed which keeps the body at optimal performance mode.
Patriotism: The life stories of National heroes need to be discussed to inculcate patriotism in youth.
What are the needs of our country?
What are the wrongs to be eliminated?
Once the correct direction is found, then they can opt for skills of their choice.
Each youth is different, let’s help them identify their potential and groom them in that direction. Freedom to choose what they want to do, not to bind them by syllabus and time. Respect their unique psychology and with love, care and respect we can bring the best out of them.
Practical education: It is high time to replace theoretical education with practical education.
Military training: Minimum one year of military training is to be made compulsory at the start of teen age. Short refresher courses to follow thereafter.
All of us need to realize that putting efforts in protecting and upgrading youth will give us a powerful nation in the shortest possible time.
