You are right.Anyhow, my advice to the generation would be exactly the same as yours. Study hard, get a good job. But then start investing in assets, like real estate or learn a skill that’ll make you a lot of money. That is the only way to true financial freedom.
I studied in a 3rd tier international school (in terms of brand / fees). Went to a university (Bachelors/Masters) here in South East Asia, with West being an option but didn’t want to overburden my parents.
Sometimes I look back, there could have been a financial mentorship where they would teach you to invest in assets. Investing in index funds on a monthly basis very simply would have compounded your net worth. Too bad learnt it only 10 years ago as opposed to maybe 20 when I was single.
For my kids, I make it a point not to have tuitions with a 2nd/3rd tier international school. Whatever challenges there are me or my wife help them out. Only thing we give online tutoring to is Qaeda / Quran lessons to kids.