World Youth Skills Day 2025: Building Skills for Global Success Through Study and Work in Canada
Every year on July 15, the world celebrates World Youth Skills Day, a United Nations observance that recognizes the importance of equipping young people with the skills they need for employment, entrepreneurship, and meaningful participation in society. In 2025, as global challenges like automation, climate change, and migration reshape the workforce, building the right skills has never been more important.
For international students aspiring to study and work in Canada, this day is a reminder that education is about more than just earning a degree. It's also about building the real-world skills that will help you thrive in your studies, succeed in your future career, and contribute to your community—whether in Canada or back home.
Why Skills Matter More Than Ever
The transition from school to work is a challenging one for youth all over the world. Canadian employers do not look just for strong academic results—they’re seeking adaptable, skilled, and work-ready graduates who can think critically, communicate clearly, and collaborate with diverse teams.
International students bring many strengths to the table: cultural intelligence, resilience, multilingualism, and a global mindset. But to truly succeed in Canada’s dynamic academic and job markets, you’ll also need to develop a set of core academic, workplace, and life skills.
Top Skills You’ll Need to Study and Succeed in Canada
Whether you're enrolling in a diploma, bachelor's, or graduate program, here are key skills Canadian institutions and employers value:
📘 Academic and Study Skills
Time Management – Balancing classes, assignments, and part-time work is essential.
Critical Thinking – Canadian education is designed to encourage analysis, argument, and independent thought.
Research and Writing – Class assignments require clear writing, citations, and evidence-based arguments. It is essential to develop good research skills and use correct citation according to MLA (Modern Language Association), APA (American Psychological Association), and Chicago/Turabian styles. These styles offer a system for referencing sources in academic writing, ensuring accurate citation and enabling readers to find the referenced material.
Collaboration – Group projects are common, so being a good team player is crucial which is also necessary for teamwork in the workplace.
University of Waterloo - Co-op Work Experience Student
🌎 Interpersonal and Cultural Skills
Communication – You’ll need to speak and write clearly in English. Government jobs require employees to be fluent in both English and French.
Cultural Adaptability – Respect for diversity and openness to new ideas are highly valued in Canada.
Conflict Resolution – Knowing how to handle disagreement respectfully is key in both classrooms and workplaces.
💼 Employability and Career Skills
Problem-Solving – Employers want self-starters who can tackle challenges.
Digital Literacy – Proficiency with tools like MS Office, Zoom, and workplace software is a must.
Professionalism – Punctuality, reliability, and a good work ethic set you apart.
Networking – Building relationships with peers, professors, and employers helps open doors.
Co-Op Work Experience: Learning by Doing
Many Canadian colleges and universities offer co-op programs—short for cooperative education—that integrate real-world, paid work experience into your studies.
🎓 What is a Co-op Program?
A co-op program allows you to alternate between classroom study and paid work placements in your field. For example, if you’re studying computer science, you might work as a junior developer at a Canadian tech firm for one semester, then return to your studies.
These placements are not just jobs—they are structured learning experiences with clear goals, mentorship, and reflection.
🌟 What Skills Do Co-op Programs Help You Develop?
Workplace Communication
Learn how to write professional emails, attend meetings, and give presentations in a Canadian workplace context.
Professional Confidence
Gain experience navigating a real work environment, which builds confidence and maturity.
Technical and Industry-Specific Skills
Whether it’s coding, accounting software, lab techniques, or marketing tools—you’ll build hands-on expertise.
Networking
Meet potential future employers, get references, and start building your professional network in Canada.
Adaptability and Initiative
Employers notice students who take initiative, solve problems, and fit well into their teams.
Resume-Boosting Experience
Many employers look for Canadian work experience. Co-op gives you that advantage. Career Services at Canadian universities and colleges give resume building workshops.
Success Stories: From Student to Skilled Professional
Many international students who participate in co-op programs go on to:
Get job offers from their co-op employers
Gain eligibility for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWPs)
Secure permanent residency through Canadian immigration pathways that value work experience
Even if you plan to return home, the skills and experience gained through co-op programs in Canada are highly respected around the world.
Final Thoughts: Invest in Your Future
On this World Youth Skills Day, remember that your education is an investment not only in knowledge, but in skills that will shape your future.
Choosing to study in Canada gives you access to:
✅ High-quality education
✅ Opportunities for paid, career-related work
✅ A supportive environment for international students to grow and succeed
So whether you’re considering business, health sciences, technology, or the arts—ask about co-op programs or internships. They’re more than a way to earn money—they’re a pathway to the skills and confidence that will launch your global career.
📩 Interested in studying in Canada and building your future through co-op work experience? Reach out to Go 2 Canada Education Services to learn how to get started.
Photo by Gerd Altmann at Pexels