The Global Apprentice: Adaptable, Versatile and a Lifelong Learner

Abstract

The future of humanity itself depends on how we adapt to the existential crises we face such as global warming and the loss of biodiversity. Today’s work environment demands high-performance teams comprising diverse, multi-disciplinary workers with lifelong learning skills that are educated in a manner that will equip them to understand and combat the crises we face. These teams must be capable of adapting and solving present and future problems of our growing population while safeguarding our planet and its resources. This paper presents the findings of two European studies emphasising the importance of education and training in enabling current and future workers to engage with new technologies and new learning. It proposes an educational model based on collaboration between Higher Education institutions, Industry and Commercial companies and learners. It presents the skills required to ensure a successful transition to Industry 5.0 and defines how the four pillars of evolving education. a) Macro credentials, b) Micro credentials, c) Mentoring and Equality, d) Diversity, Belonging and Inclusion, hold specific characteristics designed to meet the challenges of the future workplace.