Youth in Gen Z voice concerns over the significance of academic degrees, fearing AI may erode job opportunities
In a recent global survey conducted by Yugo, the first global student housing brand and operator, nearly four in five students expressed fears that AI could make human workers redundant, with 78% of UK students sharing similar concerns[1]. This anxiety comes at a time when there has been a notable decline in UK entry-level job postings, with a 30% drop since 2022.
However, the research also signifies a call to the entire education sector to support students beyond the curriculum. Yugo's findings indicate that education institutions and accommodation providers are responding to student anxieties about AI's impact on employability by offering holistic support that goes beyond traditional academics.
Yugo integrates AI literacy, career support, mental health programming, and soft skills development into their student services. For instance, their YuPro pillar and Live Your Best Life platform provide in-house career support, AI upskilling, localized events, and wellbeing programs in multiple international locations[1]. These efforts aim to create safe, supportive environments for students to develop both academic knowledge and essential soft skills, thus addressing fears and uncertainties students hold about future employment caused by AI disruptions.
The research also reveals that 43% of students worldwide use AI tools to support their studies and productivity, with 43% of students already using AI tools to proof and edit academic work. Interestingly, 59.5% of Gen Z male students and 55% of females say AI has improved their work-life balance.
Among mature students aged 55-64, 83.3% say AI has made their studies easier. This suggests that AI is not just a tool for the younger generation but is also beneficial for older students.
Emily Porter, Global Senior Brand Manager and Head of the Live Your Best Life programme at Yugo, believes the research presents an opportunity for the education sector to step up and address students' concerns about AI and employment. She emphasizes that students are looking for providers who care about their whole journey, from moving in to moving on[1].
Moreover, students themselves are proactively seeking accommodation and educational providers who focus not only on academic success but also on supporting their overall life journey—from moving in to moving on—signalling a shift in expectations around education and support services[1].
Yugo's research is part of their Live Your Best Life programme, designed to support students holistically, including personal development, professional growth, and sustainability. The programme aims to prepare students not just for exams, but for life.
Concerns over the value of higher education are growing as UK student debt now averages over £53,000. The research suggests that education providers need to offer more than just academic support to attract and retain students in this uncertain job market.
In summary, Yugo's research highlights a multifaceted approach by education and accommodation providers that incorporates AI skill-building, soft skills development, mental health support, and personalized career guidance to equip students for an uncertain job market dominated by AI.
[1] Yugo's press release, 2023.
Technology is integrated into Yugo's student services, offering AI upskilling and tools to support academic studies, productivity, and work-life balance. The education sector is being called upon to provide holistic support to students, going beyond traditional academics, to include education-and-self-development and career-development services, as indicated by Yugo's research.
