(NAPSI)—A new survey of U.S. teens by Junior Achievement USA (JA)—long a leader in experiential learning—and global research firm Ipsos shows that 73 percent believe AI (Artificial Intelligence) will have a mostly positive effect, or none at all, on their ability to get a good job in the future. This, despite recent estimates by various experts of significant job losses due to AI within the next five years.
The survey also found 90 percent expect to do as well or better financially than their parents or grandparents, despite reports that Gen Z is struggling to keep up with previous generations.
“It’s encouraging that today’s teens are optimistic about the future, and we need to meet that optimism by ensuring students have the skill sets and mindsets to navigate the changes that may be coming with AI and other advances,” said JA CEO Jack Harris. “The way students are educated today may not keep pace with the technological changes on the horizon. Helping students understand what skills will be needed in the years ahead is a priority for Junior Achievement.”
To that end, Junior Achievement created “Education for What’s Next,” as a way to equip Generation Z and Gen Alpha students with the durable skills needed to succeed tomorrow in a world where AI and automation may make it more difficult to get that first job, or even to find one that pays a living wage. These skills include critical and creative thinking, communication, collaboration, continuous learning, and technological literacy, including AI.
As part of its new strategy, Junior Achievement places greater emphasis on promoting life experiences linked to increased economic mobility such as mentorship during adolescence, pursuing education or training past high school, obtaining a college degree in a high-demand field, and starting a business.
