Delhi NCR-based BML Munjal University (BMU) has released a report on Gen Z and the role they can play in advancing technology, combating climate change and their views on wellness. Ritu Chhikara and Sangita Dutta Gupta, associate professors at the BMU and co-authors of the report titled ‘Unveiling Tomorrow: Empowering Gen Z in a Changing World’, told FE’s Vikram Chaudhary how industry, academia and policymakers can harness the potential of this dynamic generation. Excerpts:
Your report noted that job displacement due to artificial intelligence (AI) is a significant concern for Gen Z. How can their anxieties be addressed?
This concern arises from Gen Z’s unique relationship with technology, characterised by quick and intuitive interactions rather than in-depth understanding, driven by their shorter attention spans and the ubiquity of technology in their lives. To address these anxieties, two things can be done:
— Collaboration between Gen Z and older generations, including industry experts, can provide Gen Z with a comprehensive understanding of AI and machine learning. This will make them more at ease in an AI-dominated world, ensuring they not only know how to use AI tools, but also comprehend the underlying principles.
— Gen Z must delve into the inner workings of AI. For instance, how to use ChatGPT to your advantage. Such knowledge will enhance their efficiency when utilising AI.
Can educational reforms and Al-focused education programmes also help alleviate such concerns?
Every few months a new AI-focused job role is taking shape. This necessitates the introduction of AI-focused education across domains. With a greater number of students getting trained in AI, career opportunities are bound to improve. Educational reforms incorporating AI at various levels are required to ensure that the future workforce is future-ready.
What role can industry play in making Gen Z job-ready?
Over the past decade, initiatives like campus connect programmes have offered practical experience to Gen Z through live projects and internships. Industry has acknowledged Gen Z’s penchant for risk-taking, which is visible in their entrepreneurial ventures. Flexible and sustainable work structures that have evolved after Covid-19 align with Gen Z’s values.
How concerned is Gen Z about climate change?
Our survey (718 responses) has found that Gen Z holds significant concerns about climate change and is proposing effective measures to tackle this issue. Transitioning to renewable energy sources is the most favoured choice, with 60.7% of respondents selecting it. Additionally, 59.9% of respondents recognised investing in sustainable infrastructure and transportation. Gen Z also emphasised the necessity of implementing stricter regulations on emissions and pollution, with 54.9% selections. In summary, the survey findings reveal that Gen Z is not only concerned about climate change, but also advocates a multifaceted approach, encompassing renewable energy, regulation, sustainable infrastructure, education and global cooperation to combat it.
How is Gen Z approaching wellness?
Wellness for Gen Z is about doing what feels right for their mind and body, guilt-free. They employ social media as a platform to advocate for positive mental health practices and openly address mental health challenges. This generation prefers holistic beauty approaches, favouring brands that promote body positivity, natural ingredients and overall well-being, and are willing to invest in products that align with their values. Our survey found that Gen Z prioritises work-life balance and self-care. This is reflected in the proliferation of wellness apps.
Given the IMF’s forecast of the Indian economy crossing $5 trillion by 2026-27, what sectors should student entrepreneurs target?
The government has set a target of making technology contribute 20-25% of the GDP by 2025. AI will be the most important enabler in the digital economy. Sectors where AI can be leveraged for economic growth are health, education, banking, logistics and manufacturing, among others. Student entrepreneurs can develop AI-driven solutions for these sectors which will be the need of the hour for Industry 4.0.