SMART INVESTMENTS IN YOUTH LEAD TO RICH DIVIDENDS IN ADULTHOOD

India is driving change by strengthening comprehensive primary health services to provide preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative and palliative care services to communities close to where they live

- RODERICO H. OFRIN

GIVING priority to the well-being of young people is both a moral imperative and a strategic investment in the future prosperity, stability, and resilience of countries and societies worldwide. Globally, 1.8 billion people are between the ages of 10 and 24 years, and India is home to the largest youth population. This means more than 250 million young people will enter the workforce in India over the next decade. But only when they are healthy and happy can they truly understand themselves and their aspirations and fully contribute to their personal growth and the growth of the nation.

There is power in numbers. This young cohort is an invaluable asset, and investing in their health and well-being will play a critical role in achieving the country’s economic growth and development goals. While there are many pathways to support adolescents and young adults reach their full potential, focusing on some specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and timebound (SMART) goals can create an enabling environment for young people to thrive. Global evidence needs national action.

A study published in The Lancet shows that investing $4.6 (around Rs 380) per person per year in interventions addressing the physical, mental, and sexual health of adolescents yields ten-fold returns on investment.

Promoting Mental Health