Reimagining Higher Education: Building Future-Ready Skills for a World in Transition

Led By: Dr Jon-Hans Coetzer

The keynote talk emphasise the transformative role of higher education in preparing students for a rapidly changing world, driven by technological advancements, sustainability imperatives, and evolving societal needs. It advocates for a new social contract in education, focusing on equipping students with future-ready skills that align with work environments in transition. Drawing on the Four Worlds of Work in 2030 framework, the talk wil explore the diverse scenarios—ranging from collectivist green economies to corporate-driven innovation—and highlight the critical competencies required, such as adaptability, problem-solving, sustainability literacy, education for sustainability for delivering SDGs 4, 16, 17, and emotional intelligence. By fostering these skills, higher education can empower students to thrive in a complex, uncertain future while addressing global challenges like climate change and social equity.