The Future of Skills Development: What Canada Must Do Now to Lead
By Jennifer Flanagan, President and CEO, Actua
November 13, 2024
Originally published on TheFutureEconomy.ca
Students returned to school this fall to a very different environment from previous years. Beyond the usual challenges of a new year, they are now navigating cell phone bans, the rise of generative AI, and increasing concern over the role technology plays in their lives and mental health. These changes, while intended to enhance learning, are also contributing to confusion and anxiety for students, parents and educators alike. In this rapidly evolving landscape, how do we ensure that Canada’s youth are equipped to lead in a world dominated by technology?
The Role of STEM in Canada’s Future Prosperity
It is hard to dispute that the solutions to many of our world’s problems–and many opportunities for future prosperity–lie within science and technology. Most Canadians now agree that science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) literacy and experience are non-negotiables despite ongoing uncertainty around specific jobs and industries.
We must also ensure STEM learning is done in ways that mitigate risks to their mental health, connect what they are learning to the world around them, and balance online and offline experiences.
We absolutely need to prepare youth to become Canada’s leaders through exposure to STEM. But, within the current context, we must also ensure STEM learning is done in ways that mitigate risks to their mental health, connect what they are learning to the world around them, and balance online and offline experiences.
I’ve been working with youth in STEM outreach for over 25 years, and I’ve seen the tremendous impact STEM engagement has on young people, especially when exposed to it early. It builds confidence, fuels curiosity, sparks imagination and builds foundational skills, including technical literacy, math competency, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities essential for any career path.
Preparing Youth Through STEM: Building Future Leaders
Investments in STEM learning, both inside and outside the formal classroom, particularly related to technology, have grown tremendously over the last decade, and they should continue. Though access remains uneven in Canada, where some youth have more opportunities than others, we are making progress and must continue to find ways to reach those who are being left out of STEM opportunities.