In a groundbreaking initiative, the International Labour Organization (ILO) brought together youth voices to champion occupational safety and health (OSH) at EXPO 2025 in Osaka, Kansai, Japan.
The inaugural "Youth Congress" pitch contest, held on 17 July 2025, featured eight student teams from across the globe presenting innovative ideas to improve workplace safety. Among the special guests were Japanese celebrities Yoko Oginome and Aki Mukai, who joined to support the cause.
Mahidol University of Thailand took home the top prize for its app designed to safeguard the rights and safety of delivery drivers. Brigham Young University (USA) and the University of Occupational and Environmental Health Japan were also recognised for their creative contributions to OSH.
The winning concepts are set to be implemented by companies, underscoring the real-world impact of youth-driven ideas. The pitch contest concluded a three-year journey involving more than 200 students from 25 institutions across eight countries. Beginning in 2024, participants attended seminars and mentoring sessions on workplace safety, culminating in the selection of eight finalists whose Calls to Action were presented in Osaka.
The Youth Congress was a key feature of the EXPO 2025 Days on Safety, Health & Well-being for All, hosted under the Global Initiative for Safety, Health and Well-being (GISHW). Inspired by the ILO’s 2022 resolution recognising a safe and healthy working environment as a Fundamental Principle and Right at Work, the event called on young people, who often face heightened OSH risks, to shape safer, more inclusive workplaces in the digital age.
Mahidol University team members Nahataichanok Pathomrojsakul and Sunita Songjaroen expressed the motivation behind their proposal stating, "We chose this theme because delivery drivers face high risks to accidents and health problems under the overwhelming pressure from customer reviews. They often lack insurance and protective measures."
"The creativity of proposals and level of commitment by all the young people taking part has been outstanding," said Yuka Ujita, ILO senior specialist for occupational safety and health. "Their ideas bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to today’s workplace challenges, especially in the context of digital transformation, climate change and the demographic transition. These young voices have to much to offer and must be heard."
