One of university’s aims is to nurture talented youngsters and prepare them for the workplace. Yet, with the ailing economic backdrop across the globe, school-leavers complain that they struggle to find their ideal jobs upon graduation. I partially agree with this statement. Because youth unemployment in a complicated issue and varies substantially in different regions, it is hard to make a concrete statement that it is the biggest concern among school-leavers.
Undoubtedly, some countries have seen a soaring unemployment rate in the post-pandemic environment. China is a case in point. Followed by the implosion of China’s property crisis, household savings and consumption dropped significantly. This initiated a chain effect that ultimately worsened the domestic economy and the job market. Competition has never been so fierce before in China and youth unemployment reached a whopping 16% in the last quarter. This is a worrying trend. Without a stable job, youth’s talent and skillset are no where to be utilized. Neither can they jumpstart to build an illustrious career, nor could they provide for their family financially.
The reason why I only partially agree with the statement is due to the fact that some countries’ youth unemployment is a relatively minor issue. Take the United States as example, youth unemployment remains a low level of 2.5%, which is in healthy shape. However, that does not mean US teenagers are worry-free. They simply has another elephant to address. The skyrocketing housing price in the US, especially in cities like San Francisco and New York, have plunged youth into dejection. They are unable to afford the high rent and are forced to live in cheaper remote areas of the city. This, in term, forges school-leavers to spend more time to transit between home and work, which tremendously undermines their quality of life and social life.
While youth unemployment may or may not be the only major problem youngsters face. It is undeniable that youngsters today are mired in challenges. However, with their resilience and energy, I am sure that they will overcome the obstacles.