What students need to know: Skills that will define the jobs of the future | Maple Leaf Kingsley International School

The World Economic Forum estimates that one billion jobs will be radically transformed by technology in the next decade, and by 2025 half of all employees will need reskilling.

Future jobs are becoming increasingly focused on highly adaptable and tech-driven skills–requiring a workforce who can think critically, creatively, and strategically is increasing.

As students prepare to enter the workforce, they need to be equipped with the skills that will help them succeed in the face of this unprecedented change. Here are the top eight skills students need to be ready for the future.

Skills that will define the jobs of the future

1       1. Problem-solving skills

Problem-solving involves asking questions, generating and considering different possible solutions, taking action to implement them and evaluating their effectiveness.

Problem-solving is a core skill that will help students in all aspects of life, from identifying and resolving problems to critical thinking and decision-making. These skills can be developed through practice and exposure to real-world scenarios.

2      2. Creative thinking

Individuals who can approach problems with a creative mindset are highly valued in the job market as businesses strive to differentiate themselves from competitors.

Creative thinking helps students learn new skills, solve problems and make decisions by encouraging them to think outside the box.  It also improves their ability to think critically and interpret information, which helps them become effective learners.

1      3. Digital literacy

Digital literacy is a set of skills that allows students to use technology effectively in their everyday lives. It involves the ability to navigate and use digital tools effectively, as well as understanding the impact of technology on society and the economy.

In a world where technology is rapidly advancing, students need to be proficient in digital tools and platforms, such as cloud computing, data analytics and social media, to succeed in the jobs of the future.

2       4. Effective Communication

Effective communication involves the ability to listen actively, articulate ideas clearly and in a persuasive manner, and collaborate with others. As technology continues to advance, the ability to communicate effectively across different platforms and mediums will become increasingly important. Communication skills are essential in every industry and will continue to be highly valued in the future.

1      5. Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognise, understand and manage our own emotions as well as those of others. It is also referred to as EQ (emotional quotient).

Individuals with high emotional intelligence are able to navigate complex social situations, build strong relationships, and work effectively in teams. Hence, this skill is becoming increasingly important in the jobs of the future as individuals work in diverse and multicultural environments.

2     6. Adaptability

Adaptability involves the ability to be flexible, learn new skills, and work effectively in dynamic environments. It is about having a growth mindset and being open-minded when considering different options.

 Individuals who can adapt to change are better equipped to deal with work and life challenges. They can see a wider range of possibilities and find solutions that others might not have considered.

1      7. Critical thinking

It is the ability to think rationally, logically and creatively. In a world where automation and artificial intelligence are taking over routine tasks, students need to be able to adapt quickly when they encounter new situations and challenges that require them to think differently than they did before.

Critical thinkers are able to challenge assumptions and identify possible solutions. They can also think critically about current events, developing an awareness of how these events affect them and their communities.

2     8. Global mindset

In a world that is becoming increasingly connected, individuals with a global mindset are highly valued. A global mindset involves the ability to understand and appreciate different cultures, languages, and perspectives. Individuals with a global mindset are better equipped to work in diverse and multicultural environments, communicate effectively with individuals from different backgrounds, and navigate global markets.

As the world continues to rapidly evolve with technology and automation, the jobs of the future are becoming increasingly focused on skills that are highly adaptable and tech-driven. As students prepare to enter the workforce, it is crucial for them to have a strong understanding of these skills and how to develop them. In this blog, we will explore the skills that will define the jobs of the future.

The most important skill for students to develop is critical thinking. Critical thinking is an important skill because it allows individuals to analyze situations in order to make decisions based on evidence rather than feelings or assumptions. The ability to critically analyze information makes it easier for someone to make better decisions when faced with difficult challenges in their everyday life as well as in their career path. Students should take advantage of opportunities at school like peer review groups where they can discuss ideas with friends who also have strong critical thinking skills so they can develop these skills further over time!

Equipping students with the skills for future

Maple Leaf Kingsley International School is committed to cultivating confident and independent youths with strong values and good character. Our holistic approach to nurturing the next generation of leaders has been proven effective time and again, empowering our students with the knowledge and skills they need to conquer the world.

Our state-of-the-art facilities provide a stimulating learning environment where students can develop their talents and interests. We offer many opportunities for students to grow, flourish and explore their potential and learn from one another.

From extracurricular activities (ECA) to performing arts and sports, we make sure that our students are provided with ample opportunities to express themselves, explore their potential and develop skills that will help them become the best and compete among the best!

Kingsley is the only school in Malaysia that offers horse riding as an extracurricular activity.

Trekking through the hills of Kingsley is another popular activity for students and teachers alike.

In addition, field trips, excursions, community service, team-building activities and mentor-mentee programmes are an important part of our curriculum. They give students a chance to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-life situations, providing authentic opportunities for the development of life skills.

At Kinglsey, we work with the students to help them become confident individuals who understand the importance of living purposefully and fearlessly.