Youth in the Gen Z generation question the worth of earning a degree as artificial intelligence poses a threat to their employability prospects
In a rapidly changing job market, Gen Z students are adapting to the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) by seeking to upskill, prioritise wellbeing, and diversify their income streams, according to a new research by Yugo, a global leader in student housing.
The research, conducted as part of Yugo's Live Your Best Life programme, surveyed over 7,000 students across nine countries, and highlighted concerns about AI's potential to make human workers redundant. Globally, 79% of students fear AI could make their jobs obsolete, with 78% of UK students sharing similar concerns.
Emily Porter, Global Senior Brand Manager and Head of the Live Your Best Life programme at Yugo, stated that the research presents an opportunity for the education sector to step up. "Students are embracing AI, but they are also anxious about its impact on their futures," she said.
Yugo's research reveals that many Gen Z students question whether conventional degrees will secure their future jobs, given AI's transformative impact on industries and recruitment practices. This insecurity drives a trend toward acquiring additional competencies beyond formal education, such as AI-related skills and emotional intelligence. Wellbeing support is also highlighted as a crucial factor, reflecting awareness of the stresses caused by technological disruption.
To address these concerns, Yugo is focused on preparing students not just for exams, but for life. The brand offers AI upskilling to its students, mental health programming, in-house career support through its YuPro pillar and Live Your Best Life platform, and localized events in all its locations worldwide.
The research also shows that a significant percentage of Gen Z students are exploring side hustles or multiple jobs as a coping strategy to manage cost-of-living challenges and uncertain employment prospects intensified by AI's role in the workforce.
Despite the concerns, there are positive aspects to the AI revolution. Among Gen Z students, 44% are excited about AI's potential benefits, such as improved work/life balance, healthcare, and productivity. Among mature students aged 55-64, 83.3% say AI has made their studies easier.
The research also indicates a need for the education sector to support students beyond the curriculum. Student expectations have evolved, with a focus on providers who care about their whole journey, from moving in to moving on.
In summary, Yugo’s findings emphasize that Gen Z students are adapting to AI's impact by seeking to upskill in AI literacy, develop soft skills, and prioritise wellbeing, while also diversifying income streams through side jobs to enhance their resilience against evolving career risks posed by AI.
Yugo, the first global student housing brand and operator, is at the forefront of this change, providing comprehensive support to students in this transformative era.
Technology plays a significant role in the career development of Gen Z students as they seek to upskill in AI literacy to adapt to the impact of Artificial Intelligence in the job market. Additionally, education-and-self-development is prioritized by these students as they venture beyond formal education to acquire additional competencies such as AI-related skills and emotional intelligence.
