Just recently, my millennial kids were discussing about their generation and those of succeeding ones (Gens Y, Z and Alpha) and the different characteristics, skills and concerns.
The views and preoccupations of Gens Y, Z and Alpha are about socio-civic disparities and climate change and how they could help ease the impact of climatic aberrations.
The younger (Gens Y, Z and Alpha) generations’ exposure to social media have made them more aware of global problems that need to be addressed for them to attain sustainable lives.
And today, I read about a UNICEF (UN Children's Fund) survey showing that 44 percent of young Filipinos expect future generations to be “worse off than today” because of concerns on climate change, education and lack of jobs.
Results of the U-Report survey also showed that 37 percent of Filipino youth think the next generations will be “better off than today” while 19 percent believe conditions will be the same, the report published by Business World said.
“While youth are split on whether the future generation is “worse off” or “better off” (44 percent vs 37 percent) they do see the value that rapid technological innovations and democratic access to information can bring,” UNICEF said in a statement.
Biggest concerns
The survey said that 26 percent of young Filipinos see climate change, including natural disasters, as the biggest problem they will face in the future.
Also, 23 percent of respondents are concerned they will not be able to finish their education, while 22 percent are worried about finding a job and about their health (both physical and mental), the survey added.
The results of the survey were released ahead of the Summit of the Future 2024 in New York on Sept. 22-23.
“The U-Report findings reveal the sobering, yet hopeful outlook young people have about their prospects for the future,” UNICEF Representative to the Philippines Oyunsaikhan Dendevnorov said in a statement.
“We should listen to what they have to say and work together to address these issues so that every child is cared for, protected, and given a fair chance in life,” she added.
The U-Report poll was conducted online from June 13 to July 14, 2024. Of the 3,109 respondents, 44 percent were aged 15-19 and 37 percent were aged 20-24, Business World said.
Dream jobs
On the biggest obstacle that they face in getting their dream job or starting a business in the future, 33 percent of respondents were worried about the lack of jobs for people without experience.
Another 26 percent were concerned about the economic situation, while 20% said access to a good education is hampering their prospects.
On their actions if they become the future Philippine president, they said they would prioritize education, health and the economy to build a better future. They also want to address corruption and issues about agriculture, poverty, and the environment.
“New generations are bringing a reinvigorated sense of solidarity and a compelling call for collective action. Both are essential to build the future we want,” UN Philippines Resident Coordinator Gustavo González said.
The survey also showed that 69 percent of respondents saw the UN as “very important’ in creating a better future for them and future generations.
“Every young person’s concern has always been to finish their studies and find a job good enough to support their families. This is a fundamental aspiration, as quality education has a real corresponding impact on the quality of jobs offered to the youth in the future,” said lawyer Terry Ridon, a former party-list lawmaker.
The Philippine government should address climate-related challenges, Ridon added.
It must also bolster measures to boost job generation and expand access to quality education.
Photo Courtesy: UNICEF Philippines
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