The challenge of future skill development
The development of future skills, also known as future skills or digital skills, is complex. There are differences not only between regions, but also between different levels of action and approaches. There are often similarities between actors in cooperation and projects, although companies and educational institutions often have different approaches, even in the respective country. This can be seen, for example, in the automotive industry, where both countries are looking for »future-proof« qualification models and corresponding interfaces with the education sector. It is also evident when an Indian HR manager from the software industry emphasizes that above all he needs »the right people in the right place at the right time«. These examples show that the relationship between academic education and the world of work needs to be redefined. Current requirements of the professional world and education for long-term employability must be brought together in a new way.
Different paths to the same goals
There are many different approaches to developing future skills. These include both organization-wide and individual approaches, extracurricular or external offerings. Although we still know little about the skills requirements of the future, it is possible to identify current needs and create targeted offerings. This must be supplemented by strengthening lifelong learning, but existing educational structures often do not yet provide this. It is also clear that the required skills cannot be acquired »in stock« but must go hand in hand with practical experience. Instead of looking for one right way, we should develop compatible perspectives that integrate the various approaches.