Filipinos lack crucial job skills for AI era – study
MANILA, PHILIPPINES — A new study reveals that Filipino workers often lack critical soft skills like adaptability and collaboration, leaving them unprepared for artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies.
The Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) report shows this deficiency in soft skills or transversal competencies (TVC) stems from outdated training programs geared towards pre-digital jobs.
The consequences impact career prospects and hinder economic growth, say the authors De La Salle University professor Allan Bernardo, PIDS senior fellow Jose Ramon Albert, former PIDS supervisor Jana Flor Vizmanos, and analyst Mika Muñoz.
“As we move deeper into the 21st century, the need for a workforce proficient in TVCs becomes increasingly critical,” the authors said.
The study categorizes TVCs as critical thinking and cognitive skills, interpersonal skills and intrapersonal skills.
“Filipino workers need strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills alongside effective communication, collaboration, and teamwork to adapt to evolving tasks. Soft skills like adaptability, self-motivation, and resilience further equip individuals to handle challenges and excel in a changing work environment,” the report said.
#PIDSPressRelease: Current Filipino workers often lack soft skills to adapt to digital age – PIDS study
Read here: https://t.co/sGjyRSqC48 pic.twitter.com/F56qyePnjN
— PIDS_PH (@PIDS_PH) February 7, 2024
However, the study also identifies a lack of a unified understanding and measurement of TVCs, which complicates the development of these crucial skills. The authors call for a concerted effort from educational institutions, policymakers, and industry leaders to refine the understanding of TVCs and develop effective assessment tools to integrate these skills into educational and professional settings.
“A comprehensive strategy is needed to consider the purpose, domains, and types of assessments for TVCs,” the authors concluded.
“Ultimately, such a strategy will be crucial in cultivating a future-proof and competent Filipino workforce.”
