As the world transitions into an era marked by advanced technologies, the arrival of Generation Beta—those born between 2025 and 2039—brings with it both challenges and expectations. This generation will be raised in an environment where artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are integral components of daily life, contributing to a society increasingly reliant on technology to address pressing global issues. Social research firm McCrindle highlights that "Generation Beta will … inherit a world grappling with major societal challenges. With climate change, global population shifts, and rapid urbanization at the forefront, sustainability will not just be a preference but an expectation.”
Millennials and older Generation Z individuals, who will become the parents of Generation Beta, are tasked with preparing these future citizens to navigate complexities such as climate change and societal inequities. Their upbringing is expected to foster a global perspective, community engagement, and collaboration, emphasizing the necessity for innovation—not merely for convenience but as a vehicle for addressing the urgent challenges of their time.
However, for populations in developing countries, such as the Philippines, the ambitious prospects envisioned for Generation Beta may appear daunting. The current digital landscape poses significant obstacles to technological advancement. According to the latest issue of Global Finance, the Philippines was rated 63rd out of 65 countries for technological advancement, with a composite score of -5.77, reflecting the lowest standing among East and Southeast Asian nations. The assessments were based on several criteria, including the adoption of internet services, the prevalence of LTE technology, digital competitiveness, and investment in research and development.
Among the key challenges contributing to this low ranking are limited broadband connectivity and the expense associated with mobile data, which hinder access to digital skills—tools that will be essential for future employment opportunities. The lack of basic skills, such as computer literacy, may impede socio-economic mobility for many Filipinos, particularly in breaking cycles of poverty and enhancing quality of life. A workforce skilled in digital competencies is crucial for improving the country's economic outlook and establishing a competitive presence on the global stage.
During a meeting last October, UN officials stressed that “The international community must urgently address the critical and widening digital gap between developed and developing countries.” They noted that while technology has the potential to enhance education and skill acquisition, such advantages have been limited in developing regions due to inadequate infrastructure and a shortage of human resources and expertise.
Nevertheless, the Philippine government is working towards addressing these challenges, as reported by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies. The agency indicates that strides have been made to accelerate digitalisation in alignment with the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028. Yet, challenges remain, with officials acknowledging that the execution of these digital initiatives has not met expectations.
As the future unfolds, technology’s role in addressing issues such as health, education, and the ramifications of rapid urbanisation—specifically traffic and environmental sustainability—will be vital. Investment in infrastructure, research, and development will be crucial in equipping Generation Beta with the necessary tools to thrive in a digitised world, where the interplay between the digital and physical realms will become increasingly seamless. In this context, the imperative for proactive measures and reforms becomes clear, ensuring that the upcoming generation is adequately prepared to tackle the considerable challenges that lie ahead.
Source: Noah Wire Services