Why a university degree alone may not be enough for tomorrow’s jobs

In today's rapidly changing world, a university degree alone may not guarantee success in the workforce. Chirag Nanda, managing partner of Connect To World Consultancy, urged parents to consider factors beyond just obtaining a degree when preparing their children for the future. At the Gulf News Edufair, Nanda emphasized that students need to develop the ability to adapt to a world that hasn't been defined yet.

He stressed that while a degree can provide a qualification, the real question should be whether that education will translate into the ability to function effectively in the real world.

Nanda encouraged parents to look beyond qualifications and ask whether their children are developing knowledge and skills that can help them adapt to different circumstances. He suggested that parents should not only ask what career their children want, but also what kind of person they want to become. The focus should shift from academic competition and pursuing a specific pathway to nurturing human skills that will enable students to thrive in an uncertain future.

Preparation for life beyond university involves understanding different cultures, languages, laws, and social dynamics when studying abroad. Nanda highlighted the importance of letting children make mistakes and developing their mental health, rather than pushing them into competitive environments for the sake of it. Ultimately, Nanda's message to families is to prioritize the development of the person who will hold the degree, rather than focusing solely on obtaining that piece of paper.