On August 12, 2024, a wave of youthful energy swept through the Paryavaran Complex in Delhi. Global Peace Foundation (GPF) India celebrated International Youth Day under the inspiring theme, “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.” The event was a dynamic convergence of ideas, where young changemakers and seasoned experts came together to explore how digital innovation can drive sustainability and peacebuilding.
The day kicked off with the drizzling rain and a buzz of excitement as participants registered and settled in. Young minds and seasoned experts came together to explore how digital tools can be harnessed for sustainable development. However, beyond the surface of technological advancements, the underlying message was clear: dialogue is the cornerstone of any lasting change. We can build bridges, foster social cohesion, and ultimately achieve peace through open, honest conversations.
Chairman of GPF India and former senior advisor of UN-Habitat, Dr. Markandey Rai, gave a warm welcome to the audience. The event was honored by Dr. Priyaranjan Trivedi, founder, president, chairperson, and renowned institutes’ plenipotentiary, who graced the occasion as the chief guest. Dr. Trivedi delivered an insightful keynote address, conveying that the youth are not just leaders of tomorrow but today’s catalysts. In the opening remarks, Dr. Markandey Rai emphasized that the youth are not just participants but leaders in this journey. “Character development and leadership go hand in hand,” he noted, “and in the digital age, the ability to lead with integrity and purpose is more important than ever.” This sentiment resonated throughout the event, as each speaker underscored the need for youth to take the reins in driving positive change.
The panel discussion was the highlight of the day, bringing together experts who shared their insights on the intersection of digital innovation and social progress. The panelists discussed the various aspects of sustainable development through digital innovation and technology. Dr. V. K. Goswami, former vice-chancellor, wing commander, and founding president of Environment & Peace Foundation, was the first panelist and speaker to discuss the importance of digital innovation in Environment and Renewable Energy. He added, “Sustainable development is not just an option; it’s a necessity. Let’s power the world with renewable energy, one click at a time.’’ The second panelist, Dr. H. R. P. Yadav, Head of the Civil Engineering Department at Amity University, talked about the importance of skill development and innovation in the digital field and how this can address the development of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
GPF India also had the pleasure of inviting Indian Revenue Service officer Priyamvad Yadav to be an eminent panelist. He said, “With the right skills, today’s youth can drive the digital economy toward sustainability.” Ms. Rekha Udit, chairperson of the Women International Network (WIN), illuminated the audience on the topic of equality and equity; she expressed that “True progress is measured by the equity we achieve—digital tools must be used to lift every voice, not silence it.” Ms. Vandna Guliya, founder of Cyber Sharp, a Cyber Safety evangelist and expert, talked about the importance of digital literacy in achieving SDGs. She added, “Digital literacy is our best defense against misinformation; education is the new superpower.” Dr. Sunil Mishra, Professor, Department of Sociology Laxmi Bai College, Delhi University, discussed social equity and highlighted that while technology can connect us, it must be wielded responsibly to ensure it uplifts everyone, not just a privileged few. This aligns closely with GPF India’s mission to promote social cohesion through dialogue—a principle that becomes even more crucial in the digital age.
One of the most compelling aspects of the event was the emphasis on how digital pathways are making tangible progress toward the goals targeted by GPF India. Whether through digital literacy programs that empower marginalized communities or innovative platforms that facilitate dialogue on critical issues, technology is a powerful tool in our arsenal for sustainable development. An engaging youth circle dialogue further reinforced this idea. Mudit Pathak, founder of Girlup Bharat, spoke on enhancing social cohesion through digital means. Aarav Seth, Founder of We Rise Together, spoke on skill development and innovation to address the issue of unemployment among youth for economic growth. Drishya Pathak, POP Youth Mentor, Strategist, and Public Health Researcher, spoke on sustainable development and renewable energy. Arjun Guliya, an Engineering Graduate from Queens University, Canada, spoke on the importance of digital literacy and moderated a group that discussed the issue of the digital divide and gap in digital literacy in society. Participants were divided into groups to discuss case studies that reflected the problems in human, economic, social, and environmental development to achieve Sustainable Development Goals. These discussions not only resulted in theoretical solutions; they culminated in youth statements that reflected their commitment to making a difference.
As the event drew to a close, it was clear that sustainable development’s future rests in today’s youth’s hands. More importantly, it rests in their ability to lead with character by fostering dialogue and using digital pathways to create a more equitable world. International Youth Day 2024 was a powerful reminder that when youth take the lead, progress isn’t just possible—it’s inevitable.