QS Reimagine Education 2024: Adapting to Future Skills Demands

The demand for a workforce adept in modern skills is surging as the educational landscape faces significant shifts. With industries evolving and global dynamics changing, higher education’s role in preparing students for future challenges has never been more vital.

In December 2024, the 11th edition of the QS Reimagine Education Awards and Conference took place in London. Organised by QS Quacquarelli Symonds, the event attracted 860 delegates from 76 countries, focusing on the intersections of higher education, technological advancements, and workforce development.

The event unveiled the QS World Future Skills Index, offering guidance to educational institutions, employers, and policymakers on navigating the evolving global skills economy. This report, based on an analysis of over 280 million job postings and extensive data from universities and research publications, provides insights into the current and future demands for skills worldwide.

To remain competitive, economies and educational institutions must heed the report’s insights into thriving in a digital, AI-driven, and environmentally conscious future.

The Evolving Skill Set

Today’s employers seek skills that barely existed twenty years ago, driven by advancements in AI, digital technologies, and green initiatives. The QS World Future Skills Index, referencing McKinsey Global Institute, predicts that up to 375 million workers might need to transition to new job categories by 2030 due to technological disruptions. Furthermore, the World Economic Forum anticipates significant growth in AI and digital skills, alongside the emergence of 24 million new green jobs by the same year.

While some nations excel in integrating new skills, others face stagnation despite having a pool of innovative talent. The report emphasizes the link between a country’s economic success and the efficacy of its education system, with stronger systems better equipped for future success.

Trending Skills

The report identifies a significant shift in skill demand over the past five years. AI skills such as machine learning tools and data science are on the rise. In digital fields, cloud computing and security remain critical. Green skills like environmental science and renewable energy are gaining traction due to global sustainability efforts.

Conversely, certain outdated skill sets, including legacy AI libraries and traditional programming languages, are declining in relevance.

Potential Job Displacement

The report flags the potential displacement of up to 375 million workers by 2030, particularly in roles like farming, administrative work, and machinery operation. Automation and shifts towards sustainable practices are already impacting industries like fossil fuels and traditional agriculture.

Research by Carl Frey and Michael Osborne suggests that by 2050, up to 40 percent of existing jobs could be lost to automation. This looming challenge necessitates proactive adaptation by both workers and educators.

Despite the growing need for new skills, many countries struggle to align education with market requirements, with 87 percent of businesses reporting or anticipating a skills gap.

Indicators of Readiness

The report evaluates countries based on four indicators: Skills Fit, Academic Readiness, Future of Work, and Economic Transformation. The United Kingdom excels in Skills Fit and Academic Readiness, though financial constraints could hinder future progress.

India ranks highly for its readiness for the future of work, particularly in AI, while South Korea leads in Economic Transformation thanks to significant investments in productive capacity.

Educational Innovation Necessities

Higher education institutions must adapt to changing skill demands. Maria Spies of QS Quacquarelli Symonds highlights AI as a national priority for many countries, emphasizing the need for investment in both technology and workforce skills.

Michael Spence of University College London underscores universities’ roles in fostering environments for constructive dialogue, while Nikolaz Foucaud of Coursera stresses the importance of digital platforms in enhancing accessibility and employability.

Strategic Recommendations

The QS World Future Skills Index recommends:

1. Lifelong and personalized learning: Universities should create pathways for continuous education.
2. Modularized learning: Curricula should be flexible and industry-aligned.
3. International research partnerships: Collaborations should focus on local industry needs.
4. Collaboration with employers: Strong partnerships ensure alignment with market demands.

Governments can aid this transformation by crafting smart immigration policies and leveraging higher education to attract global talent. Several Arab countries have initiated national AI strategies, showcasing their commitment to adapting to future demands.

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Table: How 12 Arab countries fared on key indicators in the QS World Future Skills Index.