A recent report from the International Labor Organization found that 1/5 of people ages 15 to 24 are classified as NEET, which stands for Not in Employment, Education, or Training. This lifestyle of doing nothing is thought to be a contributing factor to record levels of youth unemployment globally. To discuss this issue, former CEO of Blockbuster and 7-Eleven and author of “Education Is Freedom: The Future Is in Your Hands” Jim Keyes, shared his insights.

Keyes addressed the criticism directed at Generation Z, drawing parallels to his own youth during the Vietnam era. He noted that every generation faces unique challenges and emphasized that today’s young people have endured significant events such as the pandemic and the 2008-2009 financial crisis. Despite these hardships, Keyes is optimistic due to the power of technology and its role in learning.

Keyes highlighted the difference between a traditional gap year and the NEET lifestyle. While gap years are typically structured and purposeful, the NEET lifestyle appears idle. However, Keyes believes that many young people are actually engaged in activities like social media, where they learn and interact in ways that previous generations might not understand. He shared his own experience with a viral social media video that garnered 40 million views, demonstrating the potential for learning and engagement through these platforms.

Keyes expressed his belief that while it may seem like young people are wasting time, they are in fact learning and engaging in different ways. He emphasized the importance of recognizing and understanding these new forms of engagement.