Every year on July 15th, we celebrate World Youth Skills Day, a day dedicated to recognising the importance of equipping young people with the skills they need to succeed in the workforce. This day highlights the critical role of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in fostering youth employment and entrepreneurship. One field that exemplifies the importance of these skills is land surveying.
The Importance of World Youth Skills Day
World Youth Skills Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2014 to raise awareness about the high levels of youth unemployment and underemployment around the world. The day underscores the importance of equipping young people with the skills necessary for employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship.
What is Land Surveying?
Land surveying is the science of measuring and mapping land and its features. Surveyors use advanced technology and equipment to gather data on the shape, location, and elevation of land areas. This data is crucial for various applications, including construction, land development, and environmental conservation.
The Connection Between Land Surveying and Youth Skills
Land surveying is a profession that requires a unique set of skills, combining technical knowledge with practical application. It offers a promising career path for young people, especially those interested in geography, mathematics, and technology. Here’s how land surveying aligns with the goals of World Youth Skills Day:
- Technical Skills Development
- Land surveying involves the use of sophisticated tools and technologies, such as GPS devices, total stations, and drones. Learning to operate these tools equips young people with valuable technical skills that are in high demand.
- Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
- Surveyors must analyse data, solve complex problems, and make precise calculations. These activities develop critical thinking and analytical skills, which are essential in many fields.
- Hands-On Experience
- Land surveying often requires fieldwork, providing young people with practical, hands-on experience. This experiential learning is a key component of effective skill development.
- Career Opportunities
- The demand for skilled surveyors is growing worldwide, driven by the need for infrastructure development, urban planning, and environmental management. This creates numerous career opportunities for young people with the right skills.
- Sustainable Development
- Surveyors play a crucial role in sustainable development by ensuring that land is used efficiently and responsibly. This aligns with global efforts to promote sustainable practices and can be an inspiring career path for youth passionate about the environment.
Encouraging Youth to Pursue Land Surveying
Promoting land surveying as a viable career option for young people can be achieved through several initiatives:
- Educational Programs
- Integrating land surveying into school curricula and vocational training programs can introduce students to the field early on. Offering specialised courses and certifications can help students gain the necessary skills.
- Industry Partnerships
- Collaborations between educational institutions and surveying firms can provide students with internships, apprenticeships, and mentorship opportunities. These partnerships can bridge the gap between education and employment.
- Awareness Campaigns
- Raising awareness about the importance and opportunities in land surveying can attract more young people to the field. Highlighting success stories and the impact of surveying on society can be motivating.
- Supportive Policies
- Governments and policymakers can support skill development in land surveying by investing in education, providing funding for training programs, and creating policies that promote youth employment.
World Youth Skills Day is a reminder of the importance of empowering young people with the skills they need for the future. Land surveying offers a unique and valuable career path that combines technical knowledge with practical application. By promoting and supporting skill development in this field, we can help young people achieve their potential and contribute to the sustainable development of our communities.
On this World Youth Skills Day, let’s recognise the potential of land surveying to provide meaningful employment opportunities and equip the next generation with the skills they need to succeed.