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Preparing the next generation for the future of work
The fourth industrial revolution — defined by evolving technological trends — is already taking shape and has immense potential to change the lives of millions of people globally.
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Are education institutions preparing students to succeed in an environment that is increasingly evolving? (Shutterstock/File)
T
he fourth industrial revolution — defined by evolving technological trends — is already taking shape and has immense potential to change the lives of millions of people globally. While new technologies bring with them many obvious benefits, they must also be anticipated by our education systems in order to adequately prepare our future workforce.
Are education institutions preparing students to succeed in an environment that is increasingly evolving? Are our learning systems fostering curiosity in our young people, adopting future-focused learning approaches and establishing strong education partnerships?
Two-thirds of today’s 5-year-olds will find themselves in jobs that do not exist today, according to the Deloitte organization’s “Preparing tomorrow’s workforce for the Fourth Industrial Revolution” study.
If so, how can educational institutions prepare students for the unknown? This question has pushed the boundaries of our education systems as we work towards building a future-ready workforce.
Tasked with the vitally important role of preparing young people for the future of work, schools must allow students to thrive in an environment that values curiosity and encourages innovative thinking.
Teachers need to go beyond the “right” answers and challenge students to reach their full potential. Teaching and learning must move beyond rote-learning, and give students real-life challenges and problems that require teamwork and creative thinking. Such learning experiences better equip students to succeed beyond the classroom.
The world has become globally interconnected and we are already seeing a shift in the skills needed by employees. The capabilities important for the future of work include work readiness, soft skills, technical skills and entrepreneurial skills. However, education systems have long struggled to meet and anticipate such needs. More has to be done in institutions’ approach towards youth skill development, such as injecting interactive and practical elements into the daily curriculum.
