Every generation brings something new, and Generation Z is no different. Born roughly between 1997 and 2012, this generation has grown up in a world vastly different from their predecessors. Gen Z is shaping the future in unprecedented ways, from their unique upbringing to their forward-thinking attitudes. Understanding this generation is crucial for businesses, educators, and society as a whole. So, let's dive into some interesting facts about Gen Z and what makes them tick. What is Generation Z? Generation Z (often shortened to Gen Z), also known as Zoomers, is the generation that follows Millennials and comes before Generation Alpha. Born between the late 1990s and the early 2010s, they are the children of younger Baby Boomers or Generation X. As true digital natives, Gen Z has grown up with the internet and digital technology as integral parts of daily life.  This generation is known for its tech-savviness, multiculturalism, and strong commitment to social and environmental causes. They value authenticity, inclusivity, and diversity, often using social media to express their views and advocate for change. Gen Z's entrepreneurial spirit and preference for meaningful, flexible work are already influencing culture, business, and society. Read more: Staying Safe When Studying Abroad: Essential Considerations Some Interesting Facts about Generation Z Technological Natives Generation Z is the first generation to grow up with smartphones, social media, and the internet as everyday tools. They are adept at navigating digital platforms. This tech-savviness allows them to access information quickly and stay connected with people worldwide.  Social media is central to their lives, influencing their communication styles, entertainment preferences, and even shopping habits. As digital natives, they are reshaping how we interact with technology and consume content. Diversity and Inclusion Generation Z is the most diverse generation in history, both in terms of ethnicity and cultural background. They place a high value on inclusivity, actively supporting causes related to equality, and gender rights issues.  Read more: Craft a Job-Winning Resume with AI: Step-by-Step Guide to Stand Out This generation embraces different cultures and is more likely to have a diverse group of friends. Their commitment to diversity extends to the brands they support, preferring companies that promote equality and social responsibility. Gen Z's inclusive mindset is driving change across various sectors. Education and Learning Gen Z values education but approaches it differently than previous generations. They prefer flexible, tech-driven learning environments, often supplementing traditional education with online courses and tutorials.  Skill-based learning and real-world experience are particularly important to them, as they seek practical knowledge that can be directly applied in the workforce. Lifelong learning is also a priority for Gen Z, who continuously look for ways to upskill and adapt to a rapidly changing job market.  Read more: Free Online AI Courses by Harvard University from Basic to Advanced Levels Work and Career  Unlike their predecessors, Generation Z prioritises meaningful work and work-life balance over traditional career paths. They are entrepreneurial, with many aspiring to start their businesses or pursue side hustles.  Flexible work environments that offer autonomy and align with their values are particularly appealing to them. Gen Z is also highly motivated by social responsibility, often choosing employers that have a positive impact on society. Their unique approach to work is reshaping workplace culture and expectations.

The country’s natural gas should be used mainly for power generation instead of expanding its supply to industries and other uses, a webinar was told on Saturday.  If gas is used for power generation with highest efficiency, it can meet the energy requirement without investment in gas pipeline installation to provide the energy to the industries, Dr Ahmad Kaikaus, principal secretary to the prime minister, told the webinar speaking as chief guest. Kaikaus, who served as the power secretary, called for boosting efficiency in the power sector so tariff remains in check. However, he said power price will go up as no nation has been able to reduce it. The webinar titled, “Electricity Demand in Bangladesh: Installed and Supply Capacity” was organized by Forum for Energy Reporters Bangladesh (FERB). Eminent energy expert Dr M Tamim made a presentation on the webinar’s topic while it was addressed by power secretary Habibur Rahman, Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) chairman Belayet Hossain, Power Cell director general Mohammad Hossain, Bangladesh Rural Electrification Board (BREB) chairman Moin Uddin, Bangladesh Independent Power Producers Association (Bippa) president Imran Karim, Power Grid Company of Bangladesh (PGCB) managing director Golam Kibria, Dhaka Power Distribution Company (DPDC) Ltd managing director Bikash Dewan and Dhaka Electric Supply Company (Desco) managing director Kausar Ameer Ali. Tamim said that Bangladesh should prepare short-term and long-term roadmap for its power sector keeping in mind the global commitment for zero emission by 2050 when power will be generated from renewable sources. “But until 2050, gas could be used transition fuel for power generation in next 20-30 years as still it is the cheapest primary energy”, he said adding that by this time, top most emphasis should be given on promotion of renewable energy as new technologies are coming up to reduce the cost of rooftop solar and other options. He said there should be a long-term planning for offering a stable tariff structure for the investors in the industrial sector. “Otherwise investors will not be interested to make investment depending on uncertainty or unstable power tariff”, he observed.                 Power secretary Habibur Rahman said Bangladesh has shared its proposal on regional power and sharing at the SAARC energy related meeting in Afghanistan. “It will be a win-win proposition if the regional power and energy sharing concept is materialized”, he said. He also said under the proposed arrangement all countries could be benefited. “Bangladesh can easily export its surplus electricity for the winter season while it can import for summer under the mechanism,” he added. Mohammad Hossain said captive power generation has been creating discrimination in power sector by receiving benefit from their lower gas value. He said if 100 mmcfd gas is diverted from captive power to grid power generation, it will be an effective option for addressing the current phenomenon of surplus power.   Belayet Hossain said it is time to get out the costly power generation of the private sector. Imran Karim said the private sector can convert their HFO-based power generation into gas-fired power generation by introducing new technology to reduce the generation cost. FERB chairman Arun Karmaker presided over the seminar while organization’s executive director Shamim Jahangir conducted it.