Build up skills for new economy, technological age

I refer to the reports “Job-skills mismatch underlines need for retraining” and “Technology will create good mid-level jobs: Tharman” (both Oct 26). The job-skills mismatch is becoming a growing concern with technological progress.

Paper qualifications may become obsolete, as employers will be more concerned with hiring workers with relevant skills, rather than with their educational levels. Certain jobs, especially routine ones, may eventually be automated.

The things taught in schools and universities may be irrelevant to the workforce when students eventually graduate. Indeed, the Government recognises the importance of lifelong learning to combat job restructuring.

Individuals must continuously upgrade themselves with relevant skill sets and enhance their employability. SkillsFuture provides citizens with a platform to learn outside school and is targeted at everyone: Senior citizens, working adults, lower-income workers.

The impetus is on individuals to take up such opportunities. We must acknowledge the economy is entering a new era of technological advancement. Our mindset should change, as learning should no longer be restricted to educational institutions.

Likewise, students should not be concerned only with grades but also begin to build up useful skills. We should move to learning beyond classrooms and schools.