Our Future Is In Jeopardy!

The youth of today are at a disadvantage because their minds are constantly consumed by convenience—even their news. They tend to pursue quick, bite-sized news that caters to their short attention spans, rather than engaging with detailed, thoughtful reporting. As a result, they are often uninformed about many important issues.

We have taken a step back and, in doing so, failed our youth—our future. Schools need support from media to promote academics, highlight student achievements, encourage teachers to strive for excellence, and provide a platform for students and educators to voice their concerns about the state of education. This can also bring greater awareness to the school community as a whole, inside and outside the classroom.

The minds of the future are still developing, and it is our responsibility to feed them with the knowledge and skills they need, because external forces are already influencing young minds. How can we address this? By allowing media to play a positive role in schools, we can help students aim higher and achieve more. Programs such as Student of the Month, Student of the Year, celebrating test scores, journalism initiatives, and internships can keep youth engaged and excited about learning.

For teachers, this approach can lead to more engaged and passionate students. It allows them to teach beyond the curriculum, preparing students not just to excel academically but also to navigate life beyond the classroom by informing them about the world around them and the issues that directly impact them.

Finally, to keep our youth informed, they must be made aware. In today’s world, laws, policies, and societal changes are affecting young people, and it is our responsibility to build, shape, and prepare them for the future.

Ambrosha Austin