How do we train for transition - in time?

The first Digital Challenge think tank consultation has recently concluded that we need a lifelong learning system, and this is where we are now taking up the discussion in the second consultation, which focuses on education and transformation. Transition, i.e. bringing about change, can be valuable in itself to stimulate us and avoid boredom. But in this context, we are looking at transition before or after jobs are automated.

It is obvious that it is better to switch from one job to another, even before the old one is completely rationalized away. But jobs are not usually automated in their entirety straight away; instead, different tasks are automated bit by bit. This provides an opportunity to keep up with change by finding new tasks as some are handed over to machines. But maybe you need to learn something to keep up with the change?

We have great faith in education and training as a panacea for the problems and challenges posed by societal change. But despite all the efforts, security agreements and support activities, we still do not have appropriate programs to support the transition in the labor market. For example, none of the programs offered today are available until it is too late and you become unemployed. We also place a lot of responsibility on the individual, who may find it difficult to know what to study to get on in working life.

During the two meetings we have had so far, we have found several flaws in the comprehensive continuing training system we have. We are now focusing future meetings on finding constructive solutions. Not because, in the short time we have, we can come up with complete proposals for solutions. But to show the opportunities that we see exist and that it is important that we now take advantage of.

Gunnar Karlsson

Advisor in Digital Utmaning's council "Education and Transition", Professor at KTH and Head of the Department of Communication Networks. Gunnar is engaged in the transition to online education and the impact of digitalization on higher education institutions.