Young People in China Facing Job Struggles: A New Generation’s Dream Unfolding.
Many young people in China, like 23-year-old Joy Zhang, are dealing with job challenges as the country grapples with an economic slowdown and a surplus of graduates. While the official data suggests high youth unemployment, the reality goes beyond numbers.
The traditional belief that hard work leads to a well-paying job is fading, leaving many graduates uncertain about their future. This shift in mindset, described as a “re-scripting of the Chinese dream” by anthropologist Xiang Biao, is influenced by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and a changing economic landscape.
Despite the tough job market, some graduates, like Tianyu, are optimistic about their capabilities but acknowledge the competition. Government careers are sought after, with a record number taking the civil service exam. However, even those who secure jobs may find themselves working in unrelated fields.
Joy, the first in her family to attend university, has taken on various jobs to gain experience, despite their limited prospects. She believes her generation is fortunate to have time and opportunities to explore their dreams, even if it means unconventional paths. This perspective, described as a “re-scripting of the Chinese dream,” has emerged as a response to the uncertainties brought by the pandemic and economic changes.
While the government encourages resilience and manual labor, the younger generation is navigating a different narrative. Some, like sales and marketing graduate Zheng Guling, are finding their own paths, contemplating entrepreneurship and envisioning a different future. The generational shift, fueled by a sense of vulnerability and disillusionment, could potentially reshape China’s narrative beyond the traditional themes of prosperity and growth.
This insight into the challenges and aspirations of China’s youth is drawn from a BBC article and offers a unique perspective on the evolving dreams of a generation grappling with economic uncertainties and redefining success. (Source: BBC)
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-67779222