Vietnamese Youth and the Mission of the Times

(DTO) Every year on August 12th, the international community celebrates International Youth Day (IYD), established by the United Nations in 1999. This is an opportunity for countries, organizations, and communities to reassess issues related to the younger generation: education, employment, mental health, gender equality, participation in political life, and contributions to social development. More than just a commemorative day, it serves as a reminder that young people are the force that will determine the future of each nation.

Vietnam currently has approximately 23% of its population as young people – a golden ratio, signifying enormous development potential. The nation's history has proven that, in every stage, youth have always been the vanguard force. During the struggle for independence, from the "Revolutionary Youth Comrades' Association" movement to the armies that "marched across the Truong Son Mountains to save the country," generations of young people dedicated their youth, intellect, and even their blood and lives to the Fatherland.

Today, with the country at peace and integrating into the global community, the mission of youth has changed, but the pioneering spirit remains intact. Young people no longer go to war with guns and bullets, but they still face new "fronts": combating climate change, eradicating poverty, protecting the environment, developing science and technology, preserving cultural identity, and integrating into the global economy.

A young entrepreneur achieving success, a research team inventing energy-saving technology, or a team of volunteers going to remote areas to teach literacy… all are contributing to writing the next chapter of their generation's history.

Education and skills are key for young people to enter the new era. The Fourth Industrial Revolution is profoundly transforming how people learn, work, and communicate. Qualifications are still important, but they are no longer sufficient.

Young people need soft skills, critical thinking, teamwork abilities, digital literacy, and the capacity for lifelong learning. Learning shouldn't just be for grades, but for solving real-world problems. Many examples of successful young people show that what determines success is not one's background (rich or poor), but rather proactive learning and a spirit of innovation.

Employment and entrepreneurship remain top concerns. Many young Vietnamese people still face unemployment or working in fields unrelated to their training, stemming from the gap between education and market demands.

However, the era of digital transformation, green economy , circular economy, etc., also opens up a host of new opportunities. Start-ups in high-tech agriculture, community tourism, and e-commerce are proving that young people can create jobs for themselves and their communities. But to turn ideas into reality, young people need more support in terms of capital, management skills, and market connections, while also cultivating professional ethics for sustainable development.

Mental health is a silent but serious challenge. The pressures of studying, work, and social media cause many young people to experience stress, anxiety, and even depression. Taking mental health care seriously is just as important as taking physical health care.

Families, schools, and society need to create an environment that listens, supports, and reduces prejudice. Young people also need to learn how to manage their emotions, seek help when needed, and balance studying, working, and resting.

Gender equality is a key factor in unlocking the full potential of the younger generation. Vietnam has made significant progress in this area, with an increasing number of female engineers, scientists, entrepreneurs, and leaders. However, in some regions, prejudices and barriers still exist, limiting the educational and developmental opportunities for young women. Every young person, male or female, needs to be given equal opportunities to assert themselves and contribute to society.

Young people should not only be beneficiaries of policies but also active participants in policy-making. In Vietnam, the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union and other youth organizations are playing a bridging role, bringing the voices of young people to the leadership. Many young Vietnamese have represented the country at international forums, proposing initiatives on the environment, education, gender equality, and entrepreneurship. This is not only a source of personal pride but also reflects the image of a dynamic, integrated, and responsible Vietnam within the international community.

International Youth Day shouldn't be limited to celebratory activities or superficial propaganda. The important thing is for each young person to ask themselves: "What have I done for myself, for my community, and for my country?" The answer can come from simple actions: planting a tree, saving electricity, teaching underprivileged children, preserving the Vietnamese language and traditional culture. Small but persistent actions will combine to create significant change.

The world is changing rapidly and waits for no one. Today's young generation will shape Vietnam in the next 10, 20, or 50 years. Opportunities are abundant, but challenges are also numerous. Only with knowledge, courage, ambition, and passionate hearts can Vietnamese youth fully realize the mission of the era: building a developed, sustainable, and integrated country, so that Vietnam can not only stand shoulder to shoulder with friends around the world, but also confidently lead in its areas of strength.

DUC ANH

Source: https://baoapbac.vn/xa-hoi/202508/thanh-nien-viet-nam-va-su-menh-thoi-dai-1048002/