21st-century education

Our education system must evolve to keep pace with the rapidly changing world. A key area where schools can make a profound impact is by promoting financial literacy. Teaching students essential skills such as budgeting, investing, and understanding taxes equips them for personal financial success and prepares them for careers in business, economics, and finance. Equally crucial is teaching coding and technological literacy. Schools in many Western countries have successfully integrated coding courses, helping students explore diverse career paths in tech and engineering. However, education must also go beyond technical skills to nurture critical thinking and creative problem-solving abilities. These skills are applicable across various fields – from designing corporate strategies to conducting scientific research – and are essential for lifelong success.

Strong communication skills are another essential component of a well-rounded education. Programmes that emphasise persuasive writing and effective public speaking help students become confident communicators, enabling them to thrive as future leaders in their respective fields. Incorporating health and wellness and environmental literacy in to the curriculum must also not be neglected.

Sameen Shakeel

Karachi