The 8th Youth Development Forum, which was held on April 4th, 2019 was one of the events that took place prior to the official opening of the 44th Islamic Development Bank Annual Meeting. The Forum discussed Vocational Education, Training and the need for Educational institutions, The Public and The Private sector to ensure success of the next generation’s workforce integration. Currently, there is a mismatch between skills being taught and what the job market needs. Vocational training and Technology training are essential for the next generation to be able to join the workforce and be productive citizens in their Countries.   

The Youth Development Forum panel discussion was presided over by several experts in youth development, experts from Non-Governmental Organizations, experts from International Organizations and the Private Sector. Youth and workforce development is highly important to IsDB and nearly all of the 57 member countries.  Most will agree that substantial achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) will depend on major improvements to youth and workforce development.