Future-Ready: Essential Competencies for Higher Education and Career Success in a Rapidly Evolving World

As higher education institutions (HEIs) adapt to meet the evolving needs of students and society, it is essential to consider the implications of these changes. Through an online survey for European students, we gain insights into the future of higher education. These answers inform discussions on curricula development, pedagogical approaches, and institutional policies aimed at equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

The survey provides valuable insights into the skills, perspectives, and experiences that shape the future of higher education. By understanding students’ perspectives, institutions can better prepare students to navigate the complexities of the modern workforce and contribute meaningfully to society’s continued advancement.

As technology and the digital world continue to evolve, the perspective of digital natives—the generation deeply immersed in digital tools—becomes increasingly crucial. HEIs play a key role in equipping these digital natives with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the evolving landscape.

The future generation must also address the labour market’s current challenge: a growing skills gap across Europe, affecting around 80 million European workers who are either overqualified or underqualified for their jobs (Collado et al., 2022). HEIs are entrusted with shaping the professionals of the future. They push the boundaries of knowledge and foster innovation, conducting research, nurturing academic pursuits, and instilling a passion for learning. By integrating AI into their curricula and research, they can better prepare students for the evolving job market. HEIs also support students’ overall development by offering guidance, counselling, and ensuring well-being within a nurturing and inclusive environment. Additionally, they promote extracurricular activities, leadership development, and career support to help students transition smoothly into the professional world (Arbo & Benneworth, 2007; Piterou & Birch, 2016; Räty, 2024).

Higher education plays a crucial role in preparing students for the evolving landscape shaped by artificial intelligence (AI). By incorporating AI education into curricula, institutions can equip students with the skills needed to use AI tools effectively. Beyond technical training, it is essential that higher education also emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence—skills that are uniquely human and valuable in an AI-driven world (López-Chila et al., 2023).

Recent studies have shown a significant increase in AI-related publications in higher education, highlighting the growing importance of AI in academic research and teaching (Crompton & Burke, 2023). This trend underscores the need for HEIs to stay current with AI advancements and integrate them into their programs. Additionally, HEIs bear the responsibility of teaching students about the ethical implications of AI. As future leaders, students need to understand how to use AI responsibly and advocate for ethical practices. Integrating ethics courses and fostering interdisciplinary discussions can help prepare students to make informed decisions about AI (López-Chila et al., 2023).

Furthermore, AI applications in higher education are diverse, ranging from adaptive learning systems to intelligent tutoring and predictive analytics, which can enhance personalized learning experiences (Crompton & Burke, 2023). In summary, higher education is essential in preparing students for the future by offering comprehensive AI education, promoting human-centred skills, and highlighting the importance of ethical considerations. Through collaboration with industry and society, educational institutions can help shape a generation of responsible and skilled individuals ready to lead in a world increasingly influenced by AI (López-Chila et al., 2023).

As our world rapidly evolves, so do the skills required to thrive in both academic and professional spheres. In an era marked by technological advancements, globalization, and shifting economic landscapes, it becomes paramount to assess the competencies necessary for success. A survey conducted in 2023 delved into the future skills students deem essential both during their educational journey and as they transition into the dynamic job market. This survey was part of a thesis project exploring how courses like the International Product Development Project at Häme University of Applied Sciences (HAMK) can help students upgrade their skills for the job market and life. The thesis also aims to determine whether the design-based education practised at HAMK provides the necessary start for students’ future careers.

Intrapersonal skills vs interpersonal skills

The notion that social and emotional abilities can positively impact professional performance has prompted researchers to explore the significance of non-cognitive skills as educational. We can categorize the broad concept of social and emotional competencies into two main areas: intrapersonal and interpersonal skills. Intrapersonal skills (such as setting realistic goals, maintaining a positive mindset, exercising self-control, managing emotions, and utilizing coping strategies) are crucial for effective personal conduct. Interpersonal skills (including active listening, effective communication, adopting different perspectives, negotiation, and social problem-solving) are essential for interacting with others (Goulart et al., 2022).

As we look towards the future of job markets, it’s evident that AI and technology skills will continue to be in high demand across various industries in addition to the intrapersonal and interpersonal skills explained above. Here are a few AI and tech skills needed in future job markets and some of them are shown in the survey answers as well:

• understanding industry trends
• data literacy
• programming and software development
• machine learning and AI algorithms
• ethical and responsible AI
• cybersecurity
• cloud computing
• collaboration and communication skills (Strack et al., 2021).

The rationale behind conducting this survey stems from the imperative need to bridge the gap between theoretical frameworks and practical applications in the realm of education and the evolving job market. While theoretical perspectives offer valuable insights into the changing landscape of skills acquisition and workforce demands, empirical evidence is essential to validate and refine these theories. By engaging directly with students, who are at the forefront of both educational endeavours and future career pathways, this survey aims to capture firsthand perspectives on the perceived relevance of theoretical concepts to their learning experiences and professional aspirations. Furthermore, understanding students’ perceptions of the skills they believe will be crucial in both educational settings and the broader job market is vital for informing curriculum development, career guidance initiatives, and workforce preparation strategies. Thus, this survey serves as a crucial step towards bridging theory and practice, illuminating the pathways to success in an ever-evolving educational and professional landscape.

Skills survey for European students

As our world rapidly evolves, so do the skills required to thrive in both academic and professional spheres. In an era marked by technological advancements, globalization, and shifting economic landscapes, it becomes paramount to assess the competencies necessary for success in academic achievements, career advancements, and personal growth. A survey was conducted, in 2023, to delve into the future skills students deem essential both during their educational journey and as they transition into the dynamic job market. This survey was a part of my Bachelor thesis project about finding out how courses like International Product Development Project – a course that is offered at Häme University of Applied Sciences – can help students upgrade their skills that are needed later in job market and life. About 200 students, across Europe received the survey and 25 answered it, making the response rate a respectable 12,5 %.

The survey aimed to capture insights from a diverse pool of respondents, encompassing students across various disciplines and stages of their academic pursuits. By understanding their perspectives on the evolving demands of education and employment, we can glean valuable insights to inform educational curricula, career preparation strategies, and workforce development initiatives.

This article presents the survey findings, highlighting the key skills students see as crucial for succeeding in academia and the job market. It covers essential skills from technology proficiency to soft skills like adaptability and critical thinking, exploring what students believe will be vital for their future success.

Survey Methodology

This chapter provides a detailed overview of the survey methodology used in this study, including how the survey was conducted, the target audience, timing, platform used, and the process of informing participants and obtaining their consent.

The survey was conducted using Microsoft Forms, an online tool that allows for anonymous responses, ensuring participants’ privacy. Microsoft Forms was chosen for its ease of use and ability to maintain respondent anonymity, facilitating efficient data collection and analysis.

Participants were informed about the survey through the survey form itself, which included detailed information about the survey’s purpose, data usage, and assurances of anonymity. Since the survey was completely anonymous, only participants’ gender and study level were asked to see if answers differed by these factors. Specific consent was not required; consent was implied by completing the survey.

The survey link was distributed to students of the RUN-EU alliance and other higher education students within European Alliances during the spring of 2023. This broad distribution aimed to gather diverse perspectives from students across various institutions. The survey received responses from 25 students across Europe out of 200 students contacted, resulting in a response rate of 12.5%.

The survey aimed to capture insights from a diverse pool of respondents, encompassing students across various disciplines and stages of their academic pursuits. Understanding their perspectives on the evolving demands of education and employment can provide valuable insights to inform educational curricula, career preparation strategies, and workforce development initiatives.

Identifying Key Skills for Academic and Professional Success: Research Questions and Methodology

Building on the survey methodology, this chapter delves into the specific research questions that guided the online survey and the research itself. The research questions were designed to uncover the essential skills students need during their studies, the skills that should be prioritized by HEIs for future preparedness, and the top skills students consider crucial for entering the labour market.

1. What kind of skills have students needed through their studies the most?

This question aimed to identify the skills students find most essential during their studies. By asking about the skills, they needed most, it seeks to uncover which competencies are crucial for their academic success. Students were asked to name max five skills they have needed through their studies the most. These skills could include critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, research, time management, collaboration, or subject-specific expertise. Understanding these priorities can inform educational practices, curriculum development, and efforts to better prepare students for academic and professional endeavours.

2. Going into the future, what are the needed skills that must be taught in HEIs?

This question aims to identify the skills HEIs should prioritize to prepare students for the future. It seeks to uncover emerging competencies expected to be in high demand, such as technical skills, adaptability, creativity, digital literacy, intercultural competence, and leadership. Understanding these future skill requirements can help HEIs update their curricula to ensure graduates are well-equipped for a rapidly changing world.

3. What are the TOP 3 most important skills for the student when they think about entering the labour market?

This question aims to identify the top three skills students consider essential for entering the labour market. By prioritizing these skills, it seeks to pinpoint the competencies critical for securing employment and thriving professionally. Insights from this can help educational institutions, career counsellors, and policymakers tailor programs to better prepare students for their careers.

The survey findings, presented in the following sections, highlight the key skills students see as crucial for succeeding in academia and the job market. It covers essential skills from technology proficiency to soft skills like adaptability and critical thinking, exploring what students believe will be vital for their future success. The answers have been categorized according to the World Economic Forum’s The Future of Jobs survey into cognitive skills, engagement skills, ethics, management skills, physical abilities, self-efficacy, technology, and working with others (The World Economic Forum, 2023).

As a method online data survey collection relies on careful planning, clear communication, and adherence to best practices. By following these guidelines, researchers can optimize the efficiency, accuracy, and validity of the collected data, thereby enhancing the overall quality of the research outcomes. The success of an online survey hinges on the clarity and relevance of the survey design. Crafting clear, concise questions with appropriate response options is paramount to encourage respondent engagement and minimize response errors. Additionally, selecting a reputable online survey platform that aligns with the research objectives is crucial. Factors such as customization options, data security measures, and accessibility across devices should be carefully evaluated (Vehovar, & Manfreda, 2017).

Key Competencies for Academic and Professional Achievement: Student Perspectives

From the answers to the first question, the skills that the students have needed the most during their studies are mostly related to self-efficacy and working with others as it can be seen in the Figure 1. These skills include communication, teamwork and problem-solving as well as time management, adaptability, and curiosity. Students also appreciated some cognitive skills as the ability to do research, write efficiently and have that critical thinking.

Communication skills enable students to articulate ideas clearly, engage with peers, and present arguments effectively in both academic and professional settings. Teamwork fosters collaboration, interpersonal skills, and the ability to work with diverse perspectives, all of which are highly valued in the workplace. Problem-solving, developed through research projects and real-world applications, equips students to analyse challenges, make informed decisions, and innovate.

In today’s fast-paced and interconnected world, success in virtually every industry hinges not only on technical prowess but also on a diverse array of interpersonal and intrapersonal competencies. Figure 2 presents a structured breakdown of three fundamental categories crucial for thriving in today’s dynamic landscape: AI & data skills, intrapersonal skills, and interpersonal skills. Whether one is navigating the complexities of artificial intelligence, fostering effective teamwork, or honing their ability to communicate and collaborate, mastering these competencies is essential for personal and professional growth. As shown in Figure 2, the results are quite close among these three skills, with interpersonal skills being more prominent.

Shaping the Future: Essential Skills for Higher Education in an Evolving World

The second question explored students’ views on the future and the role of HEIs in preparing them. Figure 3 shows that while the top three skills remain consistent, cognitive skills and self-efficacy have swapped places. Students highlighted the importance of teamwork, communication, analytical and critical thinking, and a realistic approach to problem-solving. Technical skills and various forms of interaction with others were also highly valued.

As the future evolves, HEIs must equip students with a balanced skill set that includes both technical and interpersonal competencies. The data emphasizes the need for critical and analytical thinking, technical proficiency, and effective communication and collaboration. Integrating these skills into curricula ensures students are not only technically adept but also capable of thinking critically, analysing information, and interacting constructively with others. This holistic preparation is vital for thriving in a complex, interconnected, and technology-driven world.

This question aims to identify the skills HEIs should prioritize to prepare students for the future, such as adaptability, creativity, digital literacy, intercultural competence, and leadership. Understanding these requirements can help HEIs update their curricula to ensure that graduates are well-equipped for a rapidly changing world.

Figure 4 shows these answers categorized into three, and it was surprising to see that even though the students had needed all skills during their studies evenly (look at Figure 2), they still believe that interpersonal skills are the thing in the future, leaving intrapersonal skills to the lowest.

Key Skills for Transitioning to the Workforce: Communication, Goal Setting, and Resourcefulness

The third and final question was about naming the top 3 most important skills that the students feel they will need when entering the labour market. As seen in Figure 5, this time self-efficacy was the most popular category, again together with working with others and cognitive skills. These answers included the following answers: a realistic approach to the future, resourcefulness, and tenacity, again teamwork and communication together with content creation and consumption and technical skills.

As the students contemplate their transition from academic life to the labour market, it’s crucial to identify the key skills that will be most beneficial in navigating and succeeding in a professional environment. The data points to several essential skills, but three stand out as particularly important: communication, realistic goal setting, and resourcefulness.

Communication is the cornerstone of professional success. Whether interacting with colleagues, clients, or stakeholders, the ability to convey ideas clearly and effectively is indispensable. Strong communication skills enable everyone to articulate their thoughts, present ideas persuasively, and collaborate efficiently within a team. In a diverse and dynamic workplace, effective communication fosters mutual understanding, minimizes conflicts, and enhances productivity. By mastering both verbal and written communication, people can ensure that they are understood and can understand others, which is crucial for any professional role.

Setting realistic goals and demonstrating tenacity are critical for achieving success in the labour market. Realistic goal setting involves understanding the scope of what can be achieved within given constraints and timeframes. It requires a pragmatic approach to planning and execution, ensuring that objectives are attainable, and resources are appropriately allocated. Tenacity, on the other hand, is the perseverance and determination to see tasks through to completion, even in the face of challenges. These combined skills ensure that the students can set achievable targets and have the resilience to pursue them relentlessly, adapting to setbacks and maintaining focus on long-term objectives.

Resourcefulness is the ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties. In the fast-paced and ever-changing landscape of the modern workplace, being resourceful allows students to adapt to new situations, solve problems efficiently, and make the most of available resources. This skill involves creativity, critical thinking, and the ability to leverage tools and networks effectively. By being resourceful, they can navigate complex challenges, optimize processes, and contribute to innovative solutions that drive organizational success.

In Figure 6, these answers have been again divided into three categories. There are no surprises here, making the interpersonal skills the most popular. What is a bit surprising, is the lower score of AI and Data skills.

Balancing Essential Skills for Academic and Professional Success

Reflecting on the diverse skills that students have acquired during their studies, it becomes evident that a blend of technical and adaptive competencies is crucial for both academic and personal development. The emphasis on research, writing, critical thinking, and communication highlights the need for a well-rounded skill set that integrates specialized knowledge with versatile abilities.

Looking towards the future, HEIs should adopt a holistic approach that balances technical proficiency with critical thinking, creativity, and interpersonal skills. This comprehensive educational strategy is essential for preparing students not only for the current job market but also for the evolving challenges and opportunities ahead. By focusing on these key areas, institutions can ensure that their graduates are well-equipped to thrive in a dynamic and ever-changing world.

As students prepare to enter the labour market, three skills emerge as particularly pivotal: communication, realistic goal setting coupled with tenacity, and resourcefulness. Mastery of these skills enhances their ability to perform effectively in professional roles while fostering adaptability, perseverance, and innovation. HEIs play a crucial role in developing these competencies, thereby preparing students for successful careers.

Additionally, the paper “Time Management and Academic Achievement” explores the roles of prioritization, procrastination, and socialization in academic success. It highlights how effective time management can optimize productivity and maintain a healthy work-life balance, further underscoring the importance of these skills in both academic and professional settings (Calonia et al., 2023).

Furthermore, the report “Habits of Success: Helping Students Develop Essential Skills for Learning, Work, and Life” emphasizes the development of self-direction, collaboration, communication, self-awareness, and social awareness. These habits are essential for lifelong learning and effective participation in work and civic life, highlighting the interconnectedness of academic, cognitive, social, and emotional learning (Levine, 2021).

Critical Review

While the emphasis on these skills is well-placed, there are areas where the approach could be refined to yield more reliable and actionable results. First, incorporating more direct feedback from employers and industry professionals could provide a clearer understanding of the skills most valued in specific fields. This could be achieved through surveys, interviews, and partnerships with industry leaders.

Second, integrating real-world experiences into the curricula, such as internships, project-based learning, and practical simulations, can offer students hands-on opportunities to apply and refine these skills. This experiential learning approach bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, leading to more robust skill development. For instance, collaborative projects and mentorship programs have been shown to foster essential skills such as teamwork, communication, and professional development.

Third, conducting longitudinal studies to track the long-term impact of skill development on career success would provide deeper insights into how these competencies translate into professional achievements. By analysing the career progression of graduates, institutions can assess the effectiveness of their educational strategies and make data-driven adjustments.

Additionally, leveraging modern technology, such as AI and data analytics, can enhance the learning experience. Adaptive learning platforms can personalize education to meet individual student needs, while data analytics can help track student progress and identify areas for improvement.

Finally, fostering a culture of continuous feedback and improvement within educational programs can ensure that curricula remain relevant and responsive to emerging industry trends and student needs. Regular updates to course content, teaching methods, and assessment strategies can enhance the alignment between educational outcomes and real-world demands.

By addressing these areas, HEIs can enhance the reliability and relevance of their skill development initiatives, better-preparing students to navigate and excel in their future careers (Zamiri & Esmaeili, 2024).

Conclusion: Preparing for the Future of Higher Education and the Labour Market

As technology and digital innovations rapidly reshape our world, HEIs are tasked with preparing students to thrive in this evolving landscape. The survey findings presented in this article highlight the importance of equipping students with a diverse array of skills to ensure their success both during their academic careers and as they transition into the professional realm.

Key Insights and Future Directions

Balancing technical and adaptive skills: The results underscore the need for a balanced educational approach. While technical proficiency remains crucial, there is a clear demand for skills that facilitate critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication. Students have expressed a strong need for competencies that extend beyond traditional technical knowledge, emphasizing the importance of a well-rounded education that integrates technical and adaptive skills. This holistic approach will better prepare students for the complexities of a rapidly changing job market.

Emphasizing critical and interpersonal skills: The results reveal that communication, realistic goal setting, and resourcefulness are viewed as essential for future career success. These competencies enable students to articulate ideas, set achievable objectives, and navigate challenges with ingenuity. However, there is also a growing recognition of the need for critical thinking and emotional intelligence, particularly in the context of an AI-driven world. HEIs must, therefore, focus on cultivating these critical and interpersonal skills to prepare students for leadership roles and ethical decision-making.Addressing the skills gap: The growing skills gap across Europe highlights the necessity for HEIs to align their curricula with industry needs. Engaging with employers and industry experts to gather feedback can provide valuable insights into the skills most valued in various fields. Integrating real-world experiences, such as internships and project-based learning, can bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, enhancing the relevance and impact of education.

Promoting ethical and responsible use of technology: As artificial intelligence and other technologies become increasingly integrated into the workplace, understanding their ethical implications is paramount. HEIs should emphasize the responsible use of technology and incorporate ethics into their curricula to prepare students to navigate the complexities of AI and advocate for ethical practices.

Recommendations for Improvement

It is bold to end with recommendations, taking into consideration that the survey conducted, had a relatively small sample size. Still, it is to think that these answers give some indication of the actual situation. On this basis, I put forward some proposals for action.

To further refine the effectiveness of skill development initiatives, several areas warrant attention:

• Direct industry feedback: Incorporating regular feedback from industry professionals can help ensure that educational programs remain aligned with current job market demands.
• Experiential learning: Enhancing curricula with practical experiences, such as internships and simulations, allows students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts and develop critical competencies.
• Longitudinal studies: Conducting studies to track the long-term impact of skill development on career success can provide deeper insights into the effectiveness of educational strategies and guide future improvements.
• Continuous improvement: Fostering a culture of continuous feedback and adaptation within educational programs will help HEIs stay responsive to emerging trends and evolving student needs.

In conclusion, HEIs have a pivotal role in shaping the future workforce by equipping students with a comprehensive skill set that blends technical proficiency with critical thinking, creativity, and interpersonal capabilities. By addressing the identified gaps and implementing the recommended improvements, HEIs can enhance their effectiveness in preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of an ever-evolving professional landscape.