1. For schools in India to make progress toward offering 21st-century education, they will need to focus on teaching fluency or understanding of algorithms as well as AI proficiency beyond simply being literate digitally. The key skills for hiring will become understanding how to ask the right questions of an AI and to evaluate the responses critically instead of just knowing how to program using code. Students should be able to see technology not just as a tool for executing tasks but also as a co-worker or partner in solving problems. 2. The immediate reality is that the pace of change in the global technology sector is not being mirrored with the speed of change in education. Most newly graduated students can follow detailed step-by-step directions but struggle when required to independently think critically or adjust creatively on a project that is not using the step-by-step methodology. Education must support the future workforce by moving away from rote memorization - something which has already been commoditized by AI - and towards higher-order reasoning and real-world application. While AI will change the manner of performing work, it does not change the reason why we work. By having strong ethics and sound judgment, along with the technical competency we can ensure that students will be creating the technology rather than just operating it.
School boards in India face a pivotal moment as AI and technology redefine the workplace. Preparing students for the future means prioritizing skills that machines cannot easily replicate: creativity, critical thinking, adaptability, and collaborative problem solving. These are the capabilities that allow students not just to consume information, but to generate ideas, evaluate complex scenarios, and navigate uncertainty. From our experience in building learning and engagement platforms, the most impactful approach is project based and experiential learning. Students should be encouraged to work on real world problems, experiment with solutions, and reflect on outcomes. This fosters both analytical skills and a mindset of iteration, which is essential in a rapidly changing environment. Integrating digital literacy alongside human centered skills ensures students can leverage technology as a tool rather than being displaced by it. Currently, curricula in many schools struggle to evolve fast enough. Traditional exam driven structures often prioritize rote memorization over inquiry, limiting opportunities for creativity or cross disciplinary thinking. While some progressive schools and EdTech initiatives are introducing innovation labs, coding programs, and problem based learning, these efforts are not yet widespread. Scaling such practices requires policy alignment, teacher training, and resources that empower experimentation within classrooms. One insight we've observed is that meaningful preparation does not come from adding more content, but from redesigning how students engage with knowledge. Encouraging open ended questions, collaborative projects, and critical reflection builds both confidence and capability. A way to frame this for school boards is simple: "The future belongs to students who can think, create, and adapt faster than the tools around them." Education systems that focus on nurturing these qualities alongside digital fluency will produce graduates ready to thrive in AI enabled workplaces rather than merely surviving them.
(1) I'd prioritize foundational literacy and numeracy plus "AI-era" skills that transfer across jobs: statistical reasoning and data literacy (reading charts, understanding uncertainty, basic probability), computational thinking (decomposing problems, writing clear instructions, testing and debugging), and strong communication (structured writing, argumentation, and presenting evidence). In our work building regulated, science-led products, the people who thrive are the ones who can ask precise questions, document decisions, and evaluate sources. I'd also add practical digital hygiene: privacy, cybersecurity basics, and how to verify information quality, because those are now core life skills, not electives. (2) From what I see with partners and hires, curricula are moving, but not fast enough where it matters most: assessment and classroom time still reward memorization over reasoning. Creativity and real-world problem solving improve when students repeatedly practice open-ended tasks with clear rubrics: define the problem, propose hypotheses, test with data, reflect, and iterate. School boards can accelerate this by making project-based work a required portion of grades, training teachers on feedback and inquiry methods, and integrating local context problems (water, health, transport, agriculture) so learning is grounded in reality and ethics. Small, consistent shifts in how we assess students tend to compound quickly.
The rapid integration of artificial intelligence and automation into the workforce is reshaping the skills landscape at an unprecedented pace. According to the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report, nearly 44% of workers' core skills are expected to change by 2027, highlighting the urgency for education systems to adapt. School boards in India should prioritize skills such as critical thinking, digital literacy, problem-solving, collaboration, and adaptability, competencies that enable students to navigate complex, technology-driven environments. While many curricula have begun incorporating STEM learning and coding, progress in embedding creativity, interdisciplinary thinking, and real-world application remains uneven. A stronger focus on experiential learning, project-based education, and exposure to emerging technologies can help bridge the gap between academic knowledge and workplace readiness. Preparing students for the future requires shifting from content-heavy instruction to skill-based learning that encourages curiosity, innovation, and the ability to continuously learn in a rapidly evolving global economy.
The acceleration of artificial intelligence and digital technologies is fundamentally reshaping the global workforce and redefining the skills required for long-term employability. According to the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2023, nearly 44% of core skills are expected to change within the next five years, with analytical thinking, creative problem solving, and technology literacy emerging as the most critical capabilities. For school boards in India, this shift signals the need to prioritize competencies such as critical thinking, digital fluency, data literacy, collaboration, and adaptability alongside traditional academic knowledge. While several curricula have begun integrating coding and STEM learning, the pace of transformation often lags behind the speed of technological change. A stronger emphasis on experiential learning, interdisciplinary education, and real-world problem solving will be essential to prepare students for technology-driven industries. Education systems that move beyond rote memorization toward skill-based learning will be better positioned to equip the next generation for an economy shaped by automation, digital transformation, and continuous innovation.
Artificial intelligence and rapid digital transformation are redefining the capabilities required in the modern workforce. According to the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2023, analytical thinking, creative problem solving, and technology literacy rank among the most in-demand skills globally, with nearly 44% of core skills expected to change by 2027. For school boards in India, the priority should shift toward developing competencies such as critical thinking, digital fluency, collaboration, adaptability, and real-world problem solving alongside academic fundamentals. Although several education boards have introduced coding and STEM-focused learning, the pace of curriculum evolution often lags behind the speed of technological advancement. A stronger emphasis on project-based learning, interdisciplinary education, and exposure to emerging technologies can help bridge the gap between classroom instruction and workplace expectations. Preparing students for the future requires an education model that encourages curiosity, innovation, and continuous learning rather than reliance on memorization-based approaches.
School boards in India should prioritize skills that combine technical literacy with creativity and problem-solving. Students need a strong foundation in coding, data literacy, and AI concepts, but equally important are critical thinking, collaboration, and adaptability to navigate rapidly changing work environments. Project-based learning, interdisciplinary coursework, and opportunities for real-world problem solving can help students apply knowledge practically rather than just theoretically. From my perspective, current curricula are evolving, but not fast enough to fully support these skills. Many programs emphasize rote learning and exam performance, which leaves little room for experimentation, creative thinking, or applied technology projects. Schools that integrate experiential learning, mentorship, and exposure to entrepreneurial thinking are better positioned to prepare students for careers in AI, tech, and emerging industries. In addition, soft skills like communication, resilience, and ethical reasoning will become increasingly important as AI and automation reshape workplaces. Preparing students to think critically about technology's impact, innovate responsibly, and solve complex problems will create a workforce capable of thriving in the future economy. Name: Abhishek Bhatia Title: CEO, ShadowGPS LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/abhatia02/]
At my company Magic Hour, I see AI changing jobs, which is why creativity isn't a nice-to-have anymore, it's essential. When students make videos or tell stories with technology, they figure things out and learn to work together. Schools need to stop just teaching theory and add more hands-on design projects and group work. That's how you actually prepare them to solve problems. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to my personal email
Working with schools at Tutorbase, I've noticed students learn the most when they solve actual problems, not just memorize facts. One center we worked with had students build an app to report campus issues like leaky faucets. Half the student body was using it within the first week. This kind of hands-on work teaches them how to handle situations without a textbook answer, which is exactly what modern jobs require. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to my personal email
My time building AI at Google taught me that academic knowledge isn't enough. The teams that succeeded were the ones who could think on their feet and tackle new problems creatively. Schools in India are missing this piece. Instead of just books, students need more hackathons and real-world projects. It's the only way to prepare them for what's next. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to my personal email
I think about this question a lot; not just as someone who has worked remotely across borders, but as someone who speaks to exceptional talent every day and understands what employers are genuinely looking for. The skills that matter most in today's workforce are deeply human: empathy, communication, curiosity, and the ability to navigate uncertainty. AI can automate tasks, but it cannot replicate judgment. School boards in India should be investing in curricula that nurture these qualities early and consistently. The challenge is that most educational systems were designed for a different era, one where stability and predictability were the norms. Today's candidates enter a world where careers are non-linear, roles evolve rapidly, and the ability to learn continuously is more valuable than any single qualification. Critical thinking isn't a subject; it's a mindset. And right now, many students graduate without ever having been truly challenged to question assumptions, defend a position, or solve a problem without a clear answer. That's a significant gap. From what I've seen, matching talent with forward-thinking companies, the candidates who stand out are those who can communicate ideas clearly, collaborate across cultures and time zones, and approach problems with both structure and creativity. Schools that build these foundations will produce the candidates the future needs.
As a founder at Wisemonk working closely with global teams, one pattern is very clear. The future workforce will value how people think far more than what they memorize. For school boards in India, the most important shift is prioritizing skills that help students interpret information, question assumptions, and solve open ended problems. Technology and AI are accelerating access to knowledge. What matters now is the ability to apply that knowledge in practical contexts. Critical thinking should be a core focus. Students need to learn how to evaluate information, understand bias, and make reasoned decisions. In a world where AI can generate answers instantly, the real advantage will belong to those who know how to ask the right questions. Creativity is equally important. Many of the roles students will eventually work in may not exist today. Education systems should therefore encourage experimentation, project based learning, and interdisciplinary thinking. When students build, test ideas, and reflect on outcomes, they develop the kind of adaptability that modern workplaces require. Another skill that deserves attention is collaboration. The future of work is increasingly global and cross functional. Students benefit when they learn to communicate ideas clearly, work with different perspectives, and navigate complex group dynamics. In many ways, curricula are beginning to evolve, but the pace of change often lags behind the speed of technological transformation. Updating textbooks alone is not enough. Schools need learning environments where students practice solving real problems rather than simply preparing for exams. The schools that will prepare students best for the future are those that treat learning as exploration. When curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity become central to the classroom experience, students develop capabilities that remain valuable regardless of how technology continues to evolve.
As technology and AI transform the workforce globally, Indian school boards should focus on key skills in their curricula to prepare students for the future. Essential skills include digital literacy, emphasizing proficiency in digital tools, social media, and marketing strategies. Incorporating coursework on SEO, content marketing, analytics, and social media management will equip students for success in a tech-driven economy.
"To prepare students for the future workforce, Indian school boards should focus on key skills: 1. Digital Literacy: Ensure students are proficient with technology and digital tools. 2. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Encourage analytical approaches to real-world issues through project-based learning. 3. Creativity and Innovation: Cultivate a culture of innovation through creative activities, recognizing that human creativity is vital in an automated world."
As technology and artificial intelligence reshape industries worldwide, education systems must move beyond memorization-based learning and focus on skills that help students adapt, think independently, and solve complex problems. For school boards in India, the priority should be preparing students not just for today's jobs but for a rapidly evolving future workforce. Three categories of skills are becoming increasingly important: digital literacy, critical thinking, and adaptive problem solving. Digital literacy now goes far beyond basic computer use. Students need to understand how technology works, how data is interpreted, and how AI tools influence decision-making. At the same time, critical thinking skills help students evaluate information, challenge assumptions, and develop original ideas. Adaptive problem solving encourages students to approach challenges creatively, test solutions, and learn from failure—skills that are essential in environments where technologies and industries are constantly changing. For example, instead of focusing only on theoretical mathematics or science exams, schools could introduce project-based learning where students solve real-world problems. A class might analyze how local communities could reduce waste using technology or design simple digital solutions for everyday challenges. These types of projects help students connect academic knowledge with practical application, while also strengthening collaboration and communication skills. Global education research supports this shift. Reports from the World Economic Forum consistently identify analytical thinking, creativity, problem solving, and technological literacy among the most important skills for future employment. Education systems that integrate interdisciplinary learning, project-based assessments, and digital tools tend to better prepare students for modern workplaces. India's education system has made meaningful progress in recent years, but curricula must continue evolving to match the speed of technological change. By prioritizing creativity, critical thinking, and real-world problem solving alongside digital literacy, school boards can equip students with the skills they need not only to succeed in the future workforce but to shape it.
Q1: What skills should school boards in India prioritize? School boards need to stop treating "coding" as a checkbox and start thinking in layers. First, AI literacy. Not just using ChatGPT, but actually understanding how these models work and where they fall short. Second, systems thinking, which means connecting data, workflows, and outcomes across departments instead of working in silos. Third, adaptive problem-solving. The tools are changing every six months. Students need to learn how to reframe problems when the ground shifts under them. In our work building AI operations systems for EdTech institutions, the biggest gap we keep running into isn't technical skills. It's the ability to evaluate, audit, and direct AI outputs critically. Most people accept whatever the model spits out. That needs to change. Boards should be looking at prompt engineering, data interpretation, and ethical AI reasoning as core competencies, not electives, by 2027. Q2: Are current curricula evolving fast enough? Honestly, no. Most Indian curricula still treat technology as a separate subject rather than something woven into how every subject is taught. NEP 2020 talks about creativity and critical thinking, but very few schools have actually figured out how to assess those things in practice. The institutions getting it right, and I've worked with several over the years, are the ones embedding real-world project cycles into every semester. Students go through problem identification, research, prototyping, and iteration. It mirrors how actual teams work in industry. Until boards move away from rote evaluation and toward portfolio-based and project-based assessments, curriculum evolution is going to stay 3-5 years behind what the job market actually needs. Bio: Yogesh Pandey, Founder at Edvanta Technologies and QuadHQ.ai. We build AI staff for EdTech operations. 17 years in education technology. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pandeyyogesh/
One of the biggest mistakes education systems can make right now is trying to keep AI out of the classroom instead of teaching students how to use it responsibly. Artificial intelligence is going to be part of nearly every profession students enter, whether they become engineers, marketers, healthcare workers, or entrepreneurs. That means schools should be focusing less on memorization and more on the skills AI can't easily replace—things like critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, and the ability to ask good questions. Through my work in technology and cybersecurity, I've had the opportunity to speak on several AI panels and also participate in the BC AI community in Canada. One thing that consistently stands out is how quickly students adapt to these tools. In conversations with students in that group, many of them are already using AI to help brainstorm ideas, explain complex concepts, or organize research. Used properly, it can function almost like a digital tutor. I also see this from another angle at home. My wife teaches middle school, and the reality is that students are already experimenting with AI whether schools formally address it or not. That's why education systems should focus on teaching students how to use AI ethically and intelligently rather than pretending it doesn't exist. From my perspective, the most important skills school boards should prioritize are digital literacy, critical thinking, cybersecurity awareness, and collaborative problem solving. Students need to understand not just how to use AI tools, but also how to question their outputs and recognize bias or misinformation. Curricula are starting to evolve, but in many cases the pace of change is still slower than the pace of technology. The opportunity for school systems—whether in India, Canada, or elsewhere—is to embrace AI as a learning partner while doubling down on the human skills that will matter even more in an AI-driven world. — Darren Coleman CEO, Coleman Technologies Cybersecurity and AI Speaker https://colemantechnologies.com
One thing I think Indian school boards don't focus on is learning to question answers that sound confident. Today's AI models generate results that sound very confident, but are often wildly incorrect. The edge is now with the student who takes a second to answer how an output was generated and what the supporting evidence is, rather than with the student who can generate the output in the first place. I see this in technical work every day. Two people use the same AI libraries and one is much stronger than the other; that person is most often the one questioning the output instead of trusting it blindly. The skill comes from practicing how to evaluate and defend concepts, not from memorizing more information. Many curriculums are adding technology, but that alone doesn't teach judgment. Students learn best with practice, so the curriculum needs to introduce activities that force students to criticize answers, point out flaws in reasoning, and defend suggestions about why an answer might be wrong. This kind of thinking will be much more valued in a future workplace where access to tools is no longer a competitive advantage.
As owner of Twin Roofing since 2007, I've hired dozens of skilled workers across Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire, building a team that thrives in real-world construction challenges--skills like critical thinking and problem-solving directly mirror what AI-driven jobs demand. Prioritize hands-on vocational training, precision craftsmanship, and adaptive planning in curricula; our sheet metal shop uses Pittsburgh machines and box brakes for custom .040 Kynar panels, teaching students to fabricate under tight deadlines much like AI prototyping. Current Indian curricula lag, focusing too much on theory over projects--our roof replacement process (consultation to inspection) evolved our business 17 years ago, proving real-world simulations build creativity faster than rote learning.
I run Be Natural Music (Santa Cruz + Cupertino) and have coached kids and adults for 25+ years in programs like Real Rock Band where students have to rehearse, perform live, and record in a studio--basically constant "real world" iteration under constraints. When AI accelerates everything, the differentiator is being able to make decisions in messy, human settings, not just score well on tests. If I were advising school boards in India, I'd prioritize: collaborative execution (working in teams with roles), rapid feedback loops (build - test - revise), and communication-as-a-skill (presenting, negotiating, listening). In my band classes, the best "critical thinking" happens when a student has to choose whether to simplify a part to lock the groove, or take a risk and potentially derail the group--then explain that choice to bandmates. One concrete model: run "performance cycles" each term--students ship something public (demo day, show, exhibit), reflect, then rework. In Real Rock Band, recording exposes gaps instantly (timing, tone, arrangement), and students solve them faster because the artifact doesn't lie; that's the same muscle they'll need with AI tools generating drafts that still require human judgment and taste. Are curricula evolving fast enough? In my experience, not usually--schools add new content, but don't change the learning format. The upgrade is structural: fewer one-right-answer assignments, more coached projects with deadlines, peer critique, and portfolio evidence of learning (audio/video/writing), because that's what actually trains creativity, critical thinking, and real-world problem solving.