25 Next – a study on the future readiness of young people

In cooperation with the German Children and Youth Foundation, SINUS conducted this study on future optimism, future skills and future readiness. The results of the representative survey of 14- to 24-year-olds from 2019 show, among other things: young people are more optimistic about their own future than about the future of society as a whole.

Respondents assume a complex working environment in which they value teamwork and good time management and are resistant to stress,. “Coolness” as the ability to keep a cool head in the fast-paced information society is a quality they rate highly. “Charisma” is also important to them – being self-confident and presenting their own ideas well. Young people give themselves the worst marks in both categories.

Frank Hinte, Managing Director of the DKJS: 

“Young people sense what’s important, and are prepared to teach themselves important skills – also because they are currently unable to find suitable educational opportunities. We must not leave them alone at this point. Believing in their own creativity and motivation to learn are very important. It’s now up to us. We should act urgently as a state and as a society so that the efforts of young people don’t prove futile.”

Dr. Marc Calmbach, Director Research & Consulting SINUS:

“The results show a some uncertainty among the young generation. Although most young people feel well prepared for the future, only a few believe in social advancement. Young people today are only cautiously optimistic.”