A comprehensive exploration of the changes and challenges in the field of education on a global scale happened at 27th Elets World Education Summit in Malaysia. This discussion delves into the evolving demands of the 21st century, where traditional education models are being reassessed in light of technological advancements, globalisation, and shifting workforce requirements. The focus is not just on subject-specific knowledge but also on nurturing critical skills, adaptability, and resilience in students to prepare them for an unpredictable future. The panel discusses strategies, innovations, and challenges related to cultivating individuals who are future-ready on a global scale. It emphasises the importance of aligning educational institutions with the demands of the modern workforce and the role of technology in achieving this goal.
He stressed that the credibility of educational institutions, especially in higher education, hinges on the quality of graduates they produce and their significant role in a country’s economic growth. Prof. Singh also noted the importance of preparing students to be culturally sensitive and adaptable, considering the mobility of the modern workforce across different job markets.
Prof. Anurag Singh highlighted the need for educational institutions to align with workforce demands, foster critical skills, and prepare students for the challenges of a globalized and technologically evolving world.
Prof. Ts. Dr. Murali Raman, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Development and Strategy at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, discussed the skill sets required for the future, drawing from the World Economic Forum’s top 10 skills. He noted that these skills can be broadly categorized into three clusters.
The first cluster revolves around digital transformation and the increasing role of technology. Within this cluster, artificial intelligence (AI) plays a prominent role. Prof. Raman highlighted that AI is integrated into their university curriculum across various disciplines. They even organized sessions on using generative AI for teaching, learning, and research, collaborating with industry experts.
The second cluster focuses on critical thinking skills, including problem-solving, design thinking, creativity, and innovative thinking. Prof. Raman mentioned that these skills are embedded into their curriculum as part of their digit DNA Enterprise architecture philosophy, aiming to foster creative problem-solving abilities among students.
The third cluster emphasizes well-being, resilience, and work-life balance. Prof. Raman discussed the importance of preparing graduates to lead stable, mature lives, and to bounce back from setbacks and failures. Their curriculum addresses mental well-being, emotional state, and human values in education, encouraging students to consider their purpose in giving back to the community and society.
Prof. Ts. Dr. Murali Raman emphasized the significance of AI, critical thinking, and well-being skills in preparing students for the future. He underscored the importance of integrating these skills into the curriculum to produce well-rounded graduates who can thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Prof. Goi Bok Min, Vice President, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman in Selangor, Malaysia, highlights the challenges faced in aligning education with industry demands, especially in the context of the rapidly evolving Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR 4.0). To ensure graduates meet industry needs, curricula must be updated continuously, departing from the older model where content could remain static for decades. He emphasises the importance of fostering a growth mindset among faculty members, encouraging them to engage in research and development (R&D) and innovations. By involving faculty in R&D, they gain firsthand knowledge of emerging technologies and trends, which they can then integrate into their teaching.
Additionally, Prof. Goi emphasises the role of consultancy projects to connect academic work with industry needs, ensuring graduates are well-prepared and aligned with real-world demands. Overall, he underscores the importance of creating a culture of continuous learning and adaptability within educational institutions to meet the challenges of the future effectively.
Alyanna R. Tobias, an Instructional Designer at STI Education Services Group in Calabarzon, Philippines, discusses the institution’s approach to upskilling students and preparing them for rapidly changing technologies and industries. STI collaborates with industry leaders such as Huawei, Google, and Amazon to provide micro-credentialing opportunities for students. These micro-credential certificates allow students to acquire specialized skills that are in demand in the job market.
Alyanna points out the challenge of keeping curricula relevant given the rapid pace of technological change. To address this, STI leverages partnerships with industry experts who provide insights into the skills and competencies graduates need. Instead of teaching specific technologies like AI, STI focuses on teaching skills related to AI, such as attention to detail and critical thinking.
She also emphasises the importance of soft skills, which can be more challenging to impart than technical skills. STI integrates soft skills development into the curriculum, nurturing students’ abilities to communicate effectively, think critically, and cultivate a love for lifelong learning. This approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to adapt to future technological advancements and industry changes.
Alyanna R. Tobias, an Instructional Designer at STI Education Services Group in Calabarzon, Philippines, discusses the institution’s approach to upskilling students and preparing them for rapidly changing technologies and industries. STI collaborates with industry leaders such as Huawei, Google, and Amazon to provide micro-credentialing opportunities for students. These micro-credential certificates allow students to acquire specialized skills that are in demand in the job market.
Alyanna points out the challenge of keeping curricula relevant given the rapid pace of technological change. To address this, STI leverages partnerships with industry experts who provide insights into the skills and competencies graduates need. Instead of teaching specific technologies like AI, STI focuses on teaching skills related to AI, such as attention to detail and critical thinking.
She also emphasizes the importance of soft skills, which can be more challenging to impart than technical skills. STI integrates soft skills development into the curriculum, nurturing students’ abilities to communicate effectively, think critically, and cultivate a love for lifelong learning. This approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to adapt to future technological advancements and industry changes.
Eng. Mohammad Mahnashi, SEU President Advisor for Digital Transformation & Data Management at Saudi Electronic University (SEU) in Saudi Arabia, highlights the government’s role in driving upskilling initiatives for citizens. The government has established programs like the Human Resource Development Fund (HRDF), which encourages individuals to acquire new skills and offers financial incentives for certification.
Mahnashi also discusses the Digital Government Authority (DGA), which oversees and guides government entities in their digital transformation efforts, ensuring they follow established rules and procedures. Additionally, an annual audit process, known as “kasas,” evaluates government entities’ performance in various aspects, including technology and upskilling.
In higher education, universities have Research and Studies Institutes that operate as business entities. They engage in research, participate in tenders, and collaborate with faculty members and students to execute projects. Furthermore, the preparation year program at universities helps students enhance their skills and soft skills before diving into their chosen fields of study.
Mahnashi emphasizes that Saudi Arabia encourages upskilling and provides multiple avenues for individuals to develop their skills, fostering a culture of continuous learning and self-improvement. Universities play a vital role in this ecosystem, contributing to research and development and creating opportunities for faculty and students to apply their knowledge in practical projects.
