A FedEx-JA study finds APAC youth want more practical workplace experience, AI skills and global trade knowledge to prepare for future careers.
More than 4,200 young people aged 15 to 22 across 10 Asia Pacific markets, including the Philippines, say education needs to provide stronger preparation for an increasingly AI-enabled and globally connected workplace, according to a new study commissioned by FedEx and Junior Achievement (JA).
The Shaping Tomorrow’s Workforce – Asia Pacific Youth Insights report, published by the JA Institute, examines youth perspectives on practical skills, entrepreneurship, global trade and AI readiness.
Among the key findings, 90% of respondents believe understanding how business operates across countries will be important to their careers, but only 71% say their schools or universities have taught them how cross-border trade works.
Similarly, 84% expect to work alongside AI, while only 62% feel their education is preparing them to use AI in a real working environment. Self-directed experimentation is currently the most commonly cited way young people learn about AI, at 42%.
The study also highlights a demand for more hands-on learning. 97% of APAC youth want greater exposure to how the working world operates, while nine in 10 believe there is a gap between what they are learning and what employers will expect.
Philippine youth show strong AI confidence
Filipino respondents reported particularly strong confidence in the role of education. 95% said they feel their education prepares them to use AI, while 94% credited formal education with preparing them for careers and understanding global trade.
Filipino youth also placed a strong value on entrepreneurial thinking, with 94% agreeing that an entrepreneurial mindset can help someone succeed in any job.
The findings come as FedEx and JA mark the 20th year of the FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge (ITC). Since 2007, the program has reached more than 54,000 students across Asia Pacific, including more than 12,000 Filipino youth since 2009.
The organizations said practical, industry-led learning can help young people develop adaptability, problem-solving, digital skills and the ability to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges.
As AI and international trade continue to reshape employment, the study points to the growing importance of combining formal education with hands-on experience to prepare the next generation of workers and entrepreneurs.
