Can China deal with a huge graduate glut?

A record 12.7 million university students in China are about to enter the workforce, putting an already strained job market under unprecedented pressure.

China’s youth unemployment rate has been relatively high, hovering around 15%, but the growing challenge of AI has some analysts forecasting a youth jobless spike.

Artificial intelligence is starting to replace an entire layer of entry-level positions that have traditionally been the starting point for fresh graduates. China, one of the world's fastest adopters of AI, is feeling the impact.

So what can China's government and its young jobseekers do to navigate the labour market?

On this episode of Asia Specific, host Mariko Oi is joined by journalist Chen Yan from BBC Chinese Service and economics professor Shen Kailing from the Australian National University.

Asia Pacific, unpacked by those who know it best. Bringing you essential insights and conversations on the stories shaping the region - an economic powerhouse, geo-political flashpoint and the birthplace of global cultural trends.

Hear Asian perspectives on international issues and in-depth analysis on news from a region that’s home to nearly 2.5 billion people.

Whether it is the latest on trade between the US and China, the rise and fall of political dynasties in Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, or South Korea’s K-pop inspired soft power strategy, we find out what key players are thinking and dive into the stories that matter.

Hosted in Singapore by Mariko Oi, alongside BBC experts in Beijing, Bangkok, and beyond – listen to new episodes twice a week. Episodes of Asia Specific are also available on YouTube, here: https://bit.ly/4iJyeVt

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