I think that the current generation does not believe that producing things leads to rewards.
They believe that selling dreams is the best way to get rewarded. Maybe crypto dreams. Maybe streamer dreams. Maybe an app that gets VC investment.
Going to college is not necessary for most of that stuff although it can be very useful.
Are they right though? Everyone wants to be chief no one wants to be an Indian. But the chiefs sure are making all the money these days.