Bahraini Youth Engage in Thought-Provoking Discussions on Future Skills and Sustainable Development

In a collaborative effort to empower Bahraini youth and foster discussions on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the United Nations Population Fund Sub-regional Office for the Gulf Cooperation Council (UNFPA GCC), the Ministry of Youth Affairs, and the Bahrain Science Center for SDGs hosted the "Jalsat Shabab" panel discussion on Wednesday, September 4th, 2024.

The event, moderated by Ajwad Al Maskari, Programme Analyst for Youth and Communication at UNFPA GCC, featured a diverse panel of speakers, including Narjes Bukhanan, an Urban Development Researcher and Entrepreneur; Noor Ali, a Computer Science Student and member of LCOY and United Nations HLM Youth Advisory Group representing the Kingdom of Bahrain; Abdullah Mahmood, a Bahraini Musician and Creative Artist, Mahmood Watani, a Senior Software Developer, and Curator of World Economic Forum Global Shapers Community, Budaiya Hub.

The panel discussion, which commenced with a welcoming word from Hassan Alrayes, Partnerships and Liaisons Officer at UNFPA GCC, aimed to engage Bahraini youth in discussions about the SDGs, future skills, and career opportunities. Reem Almuraikhi, SDGs Youth Programs Specialist at the Bahrain Science Center for SDGs, presented an introduction highlighting the importance of the SDGs in relation to the Bahrain Economic Vision 2030.

During the event, attendees engaged in thought-provoking conversations about the impact of technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence, on future employment, the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, and the importance of breaking societal stigmas surrounding career choices and shifts. Participants also discussed the significance of addressing gender roles, expectations, and work-life balance.

The event aligned with Bahrain Vision 2030's emphasis on sustainable economic development, social progress, and a commitment to future generations. By engaging youth in discussions about future skills and the SDGs, the organisers contributed to fostering a knowledgeable and skilled workforce, a key objective of Bahrain Vision 2030.

Furthermore, "Jalsat Shabab" serves as a precursor to the upcoming Summit of the Future, hosted by the United Nations in New York on 22-23 September, which aims to address global challenges and promote sustainable development. The event's focus on the SDGs and the importance of technology in achieving these goals resonates with the summit's objectives of fostering international cooperation and sustainable solutions.

Reem Almuraikhi, SDGs Youth Programs Specialist at the Bahrain Science Center for SDGs, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating, "We are thrilled to have hosted this engaging panel discussion that brought together Bahraini youth to explore the intersection of future skills, technology, and sustainable development. The insights and ideas shared today will undoubtedly contribute to shaping a brighter future for our nation and the world."

"Jalsat Shabab" was a resounding success, highlighting the benefit of empowering Bahraini youth and fostering a better understanding of the SDGs and their alignment with Bahrain Vision 2030.