Second generation non-nationals in Kuwait: achievements, aspirations and plans.

About 18 per cent of all non-nationals in Kuwait were born there and have lived there at least half their life, thus comprising the second generation. A survey of 973 high school students revealed that one-third of the parents among Arabs were born in Kuwait, rendering high school students the third generation. Second generation non-nationals are typically educated, mid-level professionals and their children. They are part of extended family units residing in Kuwait. Compared with their parents, the second generation working persons (n = 252) have made considerable progress in educational level. Arabs and Asians are distinct segments of the second generation. Arabs are likely to form a larger part of the future population mix than Asians, since larger percentages of the former wish to attain higher education, and plan to look for work, in Kuwait. Socioeconomic characteristics and achievements of the second generation suggest that this group can contribute effectively to the continued advancement of Kuwait.