Gen Z Media Literacy: An Essential Skill in the Era of Information Overload

From the perspective of media political economy, mass media and digital platforms are not just tools for delivering information; they are also large businesses that rely on user attention. Algorithms are designed to maximise screen time, which means dramatic and emotional content spreads more easily. This environment makes young people particularly vulnerable to low-quality information. Many university students struggle to filter trustworthy information, a natural consequence of the sheer volume of content they consume daily. Without adequate media literacy skills, they can easily be influenced by unverified narratives. Media literacy is the ability to understand, analyse, and evaluate various forms of media. For Gen Z, this skill set includes several practical components: verifying the authenticity of news sources, recognising framing techniques or angles in reporting, understanding how media ownership and business models influence content, and using available fact-checking tools. With strong media literacy, Gen Z can become wiser users. They are not only able to consume information but also produce high-quality and responsible content. On university campuses, many communication science students are already actively creating simple educational content, from explanatory threads on current issues to short videos that educate their peers. Such initiatives are crucial for fostering a healthier information ecosystem among young people. The political economy of media teaches that information holds significant economic value and influence. Therefore, every media user, especially the younger generation, must be equipped with knowledge so they do not merely become a target market, but rather intelligent agents in the digital world. As the most tech-savvy generation, Gen Z has a great opportunity to use media positively. By improving media literacy, they can contribute to a more informed and critical society. Ultimately, media literacy is not just an individual skill, but an investment in the nation’s future in the digital age. University students, as the vanguard of Gen Z, have a strategic role to play in continuing to learn and spread this awareness among their peers.