Education Crisis Looms in the U.S.
The United States is facing a significant demographic shift, with 650,000 fewer 18-year-olds expected by 2039, posing a serious threat to college enrollment and the economy. This represents a 15% decline in high school graduates, which could result in universities experiencing reduced enrollments, financial strain, and an increased risk of closures. The decline in the young population will also worsen the labor shortage, leaving millions of jobs unfilled, particularly in sectors requiring higher education.
This demographic shift will be felt across multiple sectors, especially in education and the economy. Georgetown University predicts that by 2031, 43% of jobs will require at least a bachelor’s degree. However, the supply of college graduates is expected to fall short of meeting this demand. Between 2010 and 2021, U.S. colleges and universities saw a 15% drop in enrollment, equating to 2.7 million fewer students. Smaller universities and colleges are facing increasing financial instability, with many at risk of closure.
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