Future of Education Summit: TAG CEO Adkins on the importance of teaching employability skills at secondary, university level

The Future of Education Summit 2019 held in Dubai delved into the crucial theme of 'The Future of Education: Reactive vs Proactive'. Among the esteemed attendees was Dan Adkins, the CEO of Transnational Academic Group Middle East, who shed light on the gap between traditional education and the skills required in the workplace. In an interview with CNBC Africa's Kopano Gumbi, Adkins emphasized the significance of explicitly teaching employability skills at both secondary schools and universities. According to Adkins, studies have shown that employers seek not only discipline-specific knowledge but also individuals who possess promptness, self-motivation, teamwork abilities, critical thinking skills, and problem-solving capabilities. These skills, although sometimes considered character traits, can indeed be taught through problem-based learning methodologies. However, Adkins acknowledged the challenges that arise when attempting to instill qualities like promptness in students, which might require real-world experiences for them to truly comprehend the importance of such attributes. Adkins emphasized the role of universities in fostering a passion for lifelong learning and the ability to adapt to the evolving job market. He highlighted that today's students are likely to switch careers multiple times in their lifetime, potentially venturing into fields that do not currently exist. Thus, the ability to self-learn becomes a critical asset in staying relevant and competitive in the job market. Furthermore, Adkins proposed a balanced approach to education across the African continent, recognizing that university education may not be suitable for everyone. While emphasizing the importance of professions and university graduates, he stressed the need for respect and acknowledgment of those pursuing trades and practical skills. Additionally, Adkins advocated for promoting entrepreneurship, acknowledging that while it may not be for everyone, it plays a vital role in job creation and economic development. In conclusion, Adkins highlighted the significance of conferences like the Future of Education Summit in facilitating dialogue and collaboration among diverse stakeholders in the education sector. These platforms provide an opportunity to exchange ideas, address complex challenges, and strive towards innovative solutions by leveraging interdisciplinary and multicultural perspectives. By bringing together experts from various backgrounds and fostering a collaborative environment, such summits contribute to advancing the course of education and shaping the future of learning and workforce readiness.