Future Proof Skills

Challenge

Massive shifts are transforming the future of work through unprecedented forces: (1) generative artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and digital transformation; (2) the worldwide integration of environmental considerations into business strategies, and (3) increasingly interconnected work via remote and short-term contract work. As a result, millions may need to switch occupations or upgrade skills.

In response, EDC has developed Future Proof Skills, a comprehensive work-readiness and skills-development program for higher education students and graduates to equip them to thrive in any type of work environment. Future Proof Skills prepares students with the competencies, behaviors, and abilities required for today’s and tomorrow’s labor markets so they can join the workforce and be employable throughout their lives, be resilient in the face of change, and live sustainably.

Key Activities

• Provides students with three phases of learning: career pathways, workplace project preparation, and workplace project implementation
• Builds competence in nine skill areas: (1) resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning; (2) collaboration; (3) critical thinking; (4) creativity and innovation; (5) digital skills; (6) navigating career pathways; (7) cross-cultural leadership skills; (8) creativity and innovation; and (9) adaptive skills for sustainable economies
• Provides students with real-world problem-solving experience by integrating work-based learning based learning
• Prepares students for digital workplaces via online and in-person lessons to increase students’ comfort level in working digitally

Impact

• Over 1,000 Liberian youth have been trained in Future Proof Skills.
• Vietnam National University – Ho Chi Minh City is using Future Proof Skills for their new regional leadership training program.
• An Giang University, Vietnam, is delivering Future Proof Skills to their students.