World Youth Skills Day

Today we celebrate the 10th anniversary of World Youth Skills Day. This year’s theme, “Youth Empowerment through AI and Digital Skills,” focuses on how emerging technologies can open new doors for young people across the globe.

Jamie Brennan, Youth Tutor for the IT course at Jobs Growth Wales+ reflects on how he’s helping learners build the digital confidence and skills they need to succeed in a tech-driven future:

Technology is no longer something we “use” — it’s something we live with. It’s in our pockets, our homes, our workplaces, and even our conversations. Whether it’s setting an alarm with Alexa, using sat nav to get somewhere, shopping online, or scrolling through social media, digital tools are woven into every part of daily life.

That’s why strong IT skills aren’t just useful — they’re essential.

In the workplace, no matter the industry, some form of technology will be involved. From sending emails and managing spreadsheets to using bespoke software or digital communication tools, employers expect a baseline level of digital confidence. But it doesn’t stop at work. In our personal lives, we rely on technology to connect, navigate, learn, and even relax.

We’re also living in a time where information is everywhere — and not all of it is true. With the rise of AI tools like large language model chatbots (which many people simply call “AI”), it’s easier than ever to get answers to questions. But it’s also easier than ever to be misled. A fact can be made up. A video can be generated from nothing. A headline can be designed to provoke, not inform.

That’s why digital skills today go beyond knowing how to use a computer. They include the ability to think critically, to question what we see, and to verify what we’re told. It’s about being able to cut through the noise and find what’s real — to find your truth in a world full of information.

At Itec, we’re not just teaching IT — we’re helping people build the confidence to navigate a digital world safely, smartly, and successfully. And that’s something worth celebrating this World Youth Skills Day.