041TECH columnist Jenine Wyngaard explores: Over the last 20 years, technology has reshaped every aspect of our daily lives, with youth leading the charge into this digital age.
In the past 2 decades, technology has revolutionised the way we live, work, and communicate. This transformation has been particularly pronounced among our youth, who have grown up in an era where smartphones, social media, and high-speed Internet are the norm. The way young people adapt to and utilise technology offers a fascinating glimpse into how our society is evolving. As the world’s most interconnected generation, young people now are at the forefront of digital advancement. Today, 75% of people aged between 15 & 24 are users of the Internet, making them a generation of digital natives.
1. Communication and Social Interaction
One of the most significant changes has been in how youth communicate. Twenty years ago, landline phones and face-to-face interactions were the primary modes of communication. Today, platforms like WhatsApp, Snapchat and Instagram dominate, allowing for instant, global communication. Social media has also changed how young people form and maintain relationships. It’s not uncommon for friendships to be forged online before meeting in person, and platforms like Facebook, TikTok and X have become virtual gathering places where youth share experiences, thoughts, and ideas.
2. Learning and Education
The Internet has transformed the way our youth learn. Online resources like Udemy, Think Digital Academy and YouTube provide access to a wealth of information, allowing students to supplement their formal education with self-directed learning. Digital tools have also changed the classroom experience. Interactive whiteboards, tablets, and educational apps are now common in schools, making learning more engaging and personalised. I certainly remember some subjects that could have been done with some better engagement.
3. Entertainment and Media Consumption
In the former years, watching TV meant gathering around a set at a specific time. I remember all outside activities would stop at 16:00 for all to tune into the latest adventure of Goku and his friends. Today, streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video and more, offer a vast array of content that can be accessed anytime, anywhere. Similarly, the music industry has been transformed by technology. MP3 players and later, smartphones, have made music more portable and accessible than ever before. Streaming services like Spotify, YouTube Music and Apple Music have made it easy for young people to discover and enjoy music from around the world.
4. Work and Entrepreneurship
Technology has also changed the way young people approach work. The “gig economy” has exploded in the last two decades, with platforms like Uber, Airbnb, and Reeve offering new ways to earn money. Social media has also made it easier for young people to market themselves and their ideas. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have launched careers and businesses, allowing young entrepreneurs to reach a global audience with minimal resources.
5. Mental Health and Wellbeing
While technology has brought many benefits, it has also raised concerns about its impact on mental health. The constant connectivity and pressure to present a curated online persona can take a toll on young people’s mental well-being. However, technology also offers solutions. Mental health apps and online support communities provide a lifeline for those struggling with mental health issues, offering access to resources and support that might not otherwise be available.
Striking the balance, everything in moderation: All of us, especially young people, need to learn how to exercise moderation in the things we spend time on. Technology for our youth is fun and allows them to stay connected to their friends and family. Some will do this by spending a lot of time connecting with their friends on social media, or by hanging out with other ‘gamers’ when playing multiplayer games online. That’s okay! But it’s important to support them to balance that with physical exercise, learning, and other types of play, and to make sure they leave enough time in their week for face-to-face time with people.
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