Local and international experts are calling for a balance between technology and human-centric skills development to promote a future-ready workforce.
This vision can only be realized through strategic collaboration between government, industry and educational institutions, fostering an environment that supports continuous learning and adaptability.
This was emphasized during a breakout session of the 10th Annual Public Policy Conference (APPC) on “Ensuring a Future-ready Work Force and Protecting Workers’ Wellbeing amidst Technological Change”. Led by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, it is one of four parallel sessions at the APPC, focusing on the importance of investing in education and skills development for a future-ready workforce.
Prof. Andreas Schleicher from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development outlined key global trends reshaping work, such as climate change, artificial intelligence and demographic shifts. These factors, he said, are not only creating new opportunities but also posing significant challenges for education systems worldwide.
“Routine tasks are disappearing, replaced by technology-intensive roles. This world no longer rewards what you know, but what you can do with what you know,” Schleicher said.
