Based on the report, there is a huge and accelerating gap in skills and competencies like Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, Self management, Active Learning, Resilience, Flexibility and Stress tolerance. It is to be noted (with alarm) that these are also the key skill groups most of our Educational systems fail to impart to our students.
Most people primarily look at Education as the way of acquiring skills that would find them good jobs and a living. Thus the most important factor that drives the Educational systems around the world is jobs.
But the challenge this poses is that we need to target not the jobs of today – but the jobs of the future. Thus in order to cater to this important goal of Education, we need to understand the future of our jobs – as well as the jobs of the future.
The World Economic Forum has recently published a comprehensive report on this – the Future of Jobs. Though the report has been created specifically in the context of the disruption by the COVID-19 pandemic, in the second part, it gives valuable insights on some of the long-term trends in the overall jobs scenario for the next five years.
Based on the report, there is a huge and accelerating gap in skills and competencies like Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, Self management, Active Learning, Resilience, Flexibility and Stress tolerance. It is to be noted (with alarm) that these are also the key skill groups most of our Educational systems fail to impart to our students.
Some of the roles where an increase in demand is expected include Data Analysts and Scientists, Artificial Intelligence Specialists, Big Data Specialists, Project Managers, Strategic Advisers and Risk Managers. The roles that would face a decrease in demand include Data Entry clerks, Accountants and Auditors, Financial Analysts and Relationship Managers.
It is predicted there will be a huge need and emphasis on training and re-skilling of existing employees within the Businesses (about 40% needing re-skilling). The window of opportunity for this re-skilling also keeps reducing. This points to the need for continuous and life-long learning, with active participation of the employees, employers and the governments. At the same time, our Education Systems also need to inculcate active and self-navigated learning as a key competency in our children.
We believe this report would be great read and guide for Learners, Educators, Employers and Thought leaders alike.
Silver Pi Education Solutions Pte Ltd.
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