The job market of the future

Being aware of the challenge isn’t enough; action is needed

Many of the jobs that are in high demand today did not exist 10 years ago. One could not have imagined roles like social media expert, mobile application developer or robotics technician.

Are schools and universities preparing our youth well for the job market of the future? Many reports estimate that 80 percent of the jobs that will exist in 2030 haven’t even been invented yet, with one stating that “the ability to gain new knowledge will be more reliable then the knowledge itself.”

With rapid advancements on both social and technological fronts, job descriptions and the skills people need are changing significantly, impacting employment at a pace that is expected to further accelerate.

Being aware of the challenge isn’t enough; action is needed.

Many attempts have been made to define important job skills needed for the job market in 2020. Complex problem solving was defined as the number one skill, followed by: • Critical thinking - emotional intelligence • Creativity - services learning • Collaboration - incorporating social media • Communication - ability to adapt as a lifelong learner

Identifying reskilling priorities and job transition opportunities, creating pools of skilled talent and reinforcing lifelong learning in this time of transition must be treated as urgent global priorities.

A job is not just a job; it gives life meaning and provides hope, identity, power and opportunity.

A ‘skills revolution’ could harvest many new opportunities in education and training systems are indeed ready to adapt.

The future depends on what you do today.