Young people across Asia Pacific are looking for more practical experience and stronger preparation for an evolving workplace, according to Shaping Tomorrow’s Workforce: Asia Pacific Youth Insights, a new study commissioned by FedEx and Junior Achievement (JA) and published by the JA Institute.
The study surveyed more than 4,200 young people aged 15 to 22 across 10 Asia Pacific markets, including the Philippines, examining their confidence and readiness in areas such as workplace skills, entrepreneurship, global trade, and artificial intelligence.
The findings come as the FedEx/JA International Trade Challenge (ITC) marks its 20th year. Since 2007, the program has reached more than 54,000 students across Asia Pacific, including over 12,000 Filipino youth since 2009, providing real-world learning experiences focused on entrepreneurship and global trade.
Young People Want More Real-World Experience
The study points to a growing desire to connect classroom learning with the realities of the workplace. Nine in 10 respondents believe there is a gap between what they are learning and what employers will expect, while 97% want greater exposure to how the working world operates.
Real workplace experience, problem-solving, and creative thinking emerged as the top capabilities young people want to strengthen, followed by communication and presentation skills and digital and technology capabilities.
Looking ahead, respondents identified adaptability and learning agility as important skills for the next 10 to 15 years. However, confidence varies when navigating uncertain situations. While 62% said they feel confident adapting when plans change, only 55% are comfortable solving problems without an obvious answer.
Filipino Youth See Entrepreneurship And AI As Key
Entrepreneurial thinking also emerged as an important capability. Across APAC, 85% believe an entrepreneurial mindset can help people succeed in any career. In the Philippines, that figure rises to 94%, reflecting strong recognition of initiative, opportunity-seeking, and independent thinking.
The study also highlights the growing importance of AI and global trade. While 84% of APAC youth believe they will need to work alongside AI, only 62% feel their education is preparing them to use it in a real workplace. Similarly, 90% believe understanding international business will matter to their careers, while 71% say their schools have taught them about cross-border trade.
Filipino respondents reported higher confidence in formal education’s role, with 95% saying they feel well prepared to use AI and 94% crediting education with preparing them for their careers and trade knowledge.
For FedEx and JA Asia Pacific, the findings reinforce the value of industry-led programs that give young people opportunities to apply what they learn, develop practical skills, and better understand how technology and global business are changing the workplace.
