New York, 21 April 2022 (TDI): World Creativity and Innovation Day is celebrated on April 21. The UN aims to spread awareness regarding the importance of innovation and creativity in problem-solving concerning the United Nations Sustainable Development Agenda 2030.
The idea of celebrating this day is centered around encouraging multi-disciplinary, creative, and innovative ideas at individual and group levels.
According to the United Nations, “There may be no universal understanding of creativity. The concept is open to interpretation from artistic expression to problem-solving in economic, social and sustainable development”.
The international day was founded in May 2001 in Toronto, Canada. The UN-designated April 21 as Innovation and Creativity Day to raise awareness about aspects of creativity and innovation in human development.
In this regard, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) passed the resolution on April 27, 2017, to celebrate this day.
Creativity and Innovation in Culture
Culture is one of the components of SDGs as it serves as a source of individuality, identity, and innovation for the communities.
Creativity holds a non-monetary value that contributes to inclusive social development. The concept is dynamic and provides several new opportunities for growth for individuals and nations.
Economic growth through innovation and creativity
The creative industry is primarily based on the knowledge economy. The creative economy includes audiovisual, designs, performing arts, new media, publishing, and visual effects, offering many jobs worldwide.
In 2015, UNESCO outlined that cultural and creative industries should be part of economic growth sectors. Currently, this sector contributes $2.25 billion in revenue and 29.5 million jobs worldwide.
In this spirit, countries are promoting these emerging markets for economic returns. Providing new employment opportunities through this sector can also help alleviate poverty.
On this day, all the countries are encouraged to embrace the importance of innovation for harnessing economic gains. Innovation, creativity, and opportunities for entrepreneurial activities can create new momentum for job markets.
Furthermore, this multifacet sector has the potential to provide jobs for everyone regardless of any distinction or discrimination.
