The Future of Skill Education

Recognition among scholars, educators, and industry leaders is growing. The future job market is set to change significantly. Current jobs will need new skills. New professions will emerge. Some roles might disappear.

Economic and societal factors will shape job sector growth. Young people will need ‘future skills’ and new strategies for this changing job landscape.

What are ‘Future Skills’?

Future skills help people solve complex problems in fast-changing situations. They enable independent and thoughtful actions. These skills come from cognitive, motivational, and social resources. They are value-based and can be learned.

The NASSCOM FutureSkills portal helps the IT-ITeS industry with continuous learning. It offers deep expertise in emerging technologies like:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Big Data Analytics
• Blockchain
• Cloud Computing
• Robotic Process Automation
• Virtual Reality
• Internet of Things
• Cybersecurity
• Mobile Technology
• 3D Printing

To stand out globally, enrolling children in schools isn’t enough. Introducing AI and Machine Learning through Robotics can improve education. It makes teaching more effective.

Robots encourage problem-solving and creative thinking. They inspire students to apply their knowledge and develop engineering skills.

Industry Integration in K-12 Education

Early industry involvement in K-12 education shows the use of AI, ML, and Robotics. This helps students link theory with practice. Sectors like manufacturing, technology, banking, and finance use these technologies daily.

In our pandemic-affected world, students need adaptability and resilience. Schools should teach Creativity, Communication, and Collaboration. These are key skills industries need. Working with diverse groups will strengthen academia-industry ties, benefiting both.

Robotex India showcases this with workshops in urban and rural schools. The Robotex “Workshop Series” and “Robotex Championship” focus on STEAM. They connect students with scientists and researchers, promoting innovation.

Our workshops teach AI, Coding, and Robotics in K-12, preparing students for competitions. Our vision is to provide future skills platforms in schools. Our championships link industry and academia, turning ideas into prototypes and fostering entrepreneurship. During COVID-19, our online programs taught over 12,000 students future skills.

Mastering the Basics of AI and Coding

AI draws from Science, Math, Computing, Sociology, and Philosophy. Integrating AI-readiness in education boosts cross-disciplinary learning.

AI drives the global digital economy. Countries aim to lead with youth-focused policies. India’s AI Strategy sees technology as key for economic growth and social development. We need to shift from knowledge-based to skills-based education.

AI and Coding will support many future inventions and tasks. Focusing on these skills ensures graduates are globally employable. With COVID-19 and automation, economies can rebuild stronger.

Students can start by learning AI basics, engaging in hands-on projects, and joining workshops.

Tackling Urgent Challenges

Young talent at Robotex Olympiads has created amazing innovations over the past five years. National championships have over 10,000 participants, building skills like time management and confidence.

In 2019, an eighth-grader made an e-cycle that runs 120 km on an electric charge and can be pedaled afterward. This won national, Asia, and European championships and is being developed with Mahindra and Mahindra.

In the Line Following Competition, students build robots that follow lines using sensors. These robots can be used in agriculture, defense, and more. Young participants showcase their robots in Robotex competitions.

STEM and Soft Skills

The WEF’s Future of Jobs 2020 report highlights the need for soft skills like analytical thinking, creativity, and communication, along with STEM skills.

In-demand jobs include:

• Data Analysts and Scientists
• AI and Machine Learning Specialists
• Software and Systems Engineers
• Robotics Engineers
• E-Governance and Blockchain Experts
• Climate Change Engineers
• FinTech Professionals
• Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineers

The Imperative of Cybersecurity

Tech advancements increase the risk of cyber attacks and data breaches. Cybersecurity professionals are vital in protecting transactions and data. Organizations offer high salaries for these roles, and cybersecurity degrees are popular.

Top destinations for cybersecurity studies include Estonia, Canada, the UK, Malaysia, China, France, and Sweden. Cybersecurity careers can start right after college with a Computer Science degree or from another IT role. Curiosity and inquisitiveness are key traits for success.

The Future of Technical Education

Reading, Writing, and Arithmetic are now joined by a fourth R—Rethink. As AI becomes more prevalent, students need to study it to benefit themselves and humanity.

Technical knowledge is crucial, but creative problem-solving is highly valued. Youth talent strategies should combine Life Skills and Technical Skills for a future-ready workforce.