This year’s conference theme is “Competencies beyond Content: Aligning Today’s Curriculum with Tomorrow’s Unknown.” As we navigate a world where traditional education methods are increasingly becoming irrelevant, it is critical to rethink how we prepare students for future challenges that are only beginning to take shape.

Influential studies, like the recent Harvard Business Publishing Education analysis, underscore the urgency of evolving our educational practices. The jobs of the future, influenced by rapid advancements in AI and technology, are unpredictable. This reality demands that we shift our focus from traditional content to fostering a broad set of competencies.

The concept of prioritising competencies involves a proactive approach to curriculum reform, aiming to equip students with a diverse skill set by the time they complete their K-12 education. We are discussing the potential of integrating essential practical skills, such as digital literacy and environmental stewardship, alongside indispensable soft skills like critical thinking, adaptability, and collaborative problem-solving.

This conference invites stakeholders in education — school leaders, policymakers, teachers, students and pedagogists — to engage in a critical dialogue about these transformative approaches. Together, we will explore innovative educational strategies that prioritize competencies over content, ensuring our students are not only ready for the jobs of tomorrow but also equipped to solve the problems of the future. Join us in shaping an educational paradigm that prepares our students to navigate and succeed in the unknown landscape of tomorrow’s careers.