Education today appears to be democratised, partially liberalised, and fully globalised. Major workplaces are globally connected and utilise best management practices. However, locally designed qualifications with no global standards are losing demand. Global accreditations and partnerships with recognised universities and professional bodies have become essential for local institutions’ recognition.
Currently, more than 30,000 new learners seek foreign education in developed countries (British Council, 2024). Although exact statistics are lacking, the foreign exchange loss for Sri Lanka due to foreign education exceeds Rs. 350-450 billion annually. Over 60,000 new learners engage in transnational education (TNE) in Sri Lanka, and approximately 200,000 new learners pursue vocational training or other means of earning after schooling.
Predicament in higher education industry
Educational institutions are confused by the rise of new learning technologies and various platforms for higher education. Ownership and the power of education are shifting to learners rather than educational providers. This transition has left the education industry uncertain about teaching and learning strategies.
Managing the next generation of learners alongside emerging Edu-technologies has become a significant challenge. With the rapid pace of knowledge expansion, doubling every 12 hours, both teachers and learners must continuously update their knowledge and skills. This shift has led to a focus on lifelong learning rather than traditional formal education. Consequently, teachers are now more facilitators than instructors, while learners are increasingly focused on learning how to learn.
The real challenge today is to drive the higher education sector towards an outcome-based learning (OBL) system, where learners acquire the necessary skills through education using proper learning tools and technology. It is a known fact that learning is the process of gaining new skills by acquiring knowledge and understanding. All learning leads to the unlearning of prior knowledge, keeping learners’ minds open to new ideas. The more we unlearn, the more likely we are to experience a sense of growth and progress. As such, lifelong learning today helps people continue developing their passions and interests, which brings real happiness in life.
Generation Alpha – People born between 2010 and 2024
The name “Generation Alpha” was coined by Mark McCrindle, a generational researcher and corporate consultant in Australia. According to McCrindle, children of Generation Alpha began being born in 2010, the year the iPad and Instagram were launched. These children are arguably the first generation to have devices in their hands before they could walk. Generation Alpha is poised to be one of the most technologically savvy and globally connected generations in history.
Growing up in an era of rapid technological advancement and social change, Gen Alpha is expected to have a profound impact on the future world of work (Dan Schawbel, LinkedIn talent blog, 2024). By 2029, when the oldest Generation Alphas enter adulthood, the total population of Gen Alpha is projected to be around 2 billion, while the Sri Lankan Gen Alpha population is around 3.5 million. Research findings indicate that Gen Alpha members exhibit a greater tendency towards entrepreneurial ventures and remote work, as they prioritise autonomy, flexibility, and work-life integration from an early age. Gen Alpha’s values and expectations in the workplace will evolve in response to shifting societal trends and global challenges.
Future of Gen Alpha’s education
Gen Alpha’s technological fluency and global connectedness will require a fundamental overhaul of educational content delivery and the engagement of students beyond the classroom. This includes significant revisions in how institutions attract and enroll students in higher education. They will prioritise flexible, interconnected, and personalised digital touchpoints that make their educational journey more convenient.
Much of Gen Alpha will have grown up watching TikTok videos and other micro-sized digital content on how to cook or solve math problems, becoming accustomed to digesting bite-sized information in 2- to 4-minute bursts. Academic institutions will need to provide personalised, targeted learning to meet the individualised needs and learning styles of this generation. Institutions may increasingly leverage AI and adaptive learning technologies capable of adjusting curricula in real time to the abilities and interests of each student. Major features of future education that will enhance Gen Alpha’s learning experience are outlined below.
Globalising classrooms
Born into an era where digital connections, diverse experiences, and cross-cultural interactions are the norm, Gen Alpha will expect their higher education experiences to mirror their inherent global perspectives. Universities will need to embrace international and cross-cultural engagements in the classroom. Educators may also look to expand virtual and in-person exchange programmes and global collaborative projects that enable students to communicate and connect with peers worldwide.
Educating beyond a degree
The reality is that two-thirds of Gen Alphas will work in jobs that do not exist today. Higher education must be prepared to support learners through this workforce transition. As skepticism about the value of higher education grows, many Gen Alphas may move away from traditional degree programmes to focus on developing skills that align directly with emerging job markets.
Gen Alpha may exhibit a greater propensity for entrepreneurial ventures and remote work, as they are likely to prioritise autonomy, flexibility, and work-life integration from an early age. Gen Alpha’s values and expectations in the workplace may evolve in response to shifting societal trends and global challenges, shaping their approach to leadership, teamwork, and organisational culture in unique ways.
Entrepreneurial mindset
Gen Alpha is predicted to possess an entrepreneurial mindset from a young age, characterised by creativity, adaptability, and a willingness to take risks. The Visa study found that over three-quarters (76%) aspire to be their own boss or have a side hustle, compared to 13% who want to work for others. Growing up in a rapidly changing world, Gen Alpha is likely to embrace uncertainty and see challenges as opportunities for innovation. As a result, we can expect to see a surge in startups and entrepreneurial ventures led by members of Gen Alpha, reshaping the economic landscape and challenging established business models.
Flexible work arrangements and remote work
Gen Alpha is expected to prioritise flexibility and work-life balance, moving away from traditional 9-to-5 office jobs in favour of remote work opportunities. Growing up in an era of digital nomadism, they will value the freedom to work from anywhere, leveraging technology to stay connected and productive.
Emphasise purpose-driven work and social impact
Gen Alpha is likely to place a strong emphasis on purpose-driven work, prioritising careers that align with their values and allow them to make a positive difference. Raised in an era of environmental consciousness and social activism, they will seek employers committed to sustainability, diversity, and corporate social responsibility. As a result, we can expect to see a rise in demand for socially responsible companies and organisations, with Gen Alpha driving a shift towards more ethical and sustainable business practices.
Expansion of the gig economy
Gen Alpha is predicted to contribute to the growth of the gig economy, opting for freelance and contract-based work over traditional full-time employment. The gig economy is a free market system in which temporary positions are common, and organisations hire independent workers for short-term commitments. With a preference for flexibility and autonomy, members of Gen Alpha will thrive in the gig economy, taking on multiple projects and gigs simultaneously to diversify their income and pursue their interests.
Embrace diversity and inclusion
Gen Alpha will champion diversity and inclusion in the workplace, promoting a culture of acceptance, respect, and belonging. In the U.S. almost half of those younger than 18 do not identify as white, and 96% believe, it is important to treat all people fairly, regardless of ethnicity. With a commitment to equity and social justice, members of Gen Alpha will advocate for diverse representation in leadership positions, inclusive hiring practices, and policies that support underrepresented groups, fostering a more inclusive and equitable workforce.
Gen Alpha is poised to disrupt and change the workforce in profound ways, from their digital fluency and entrepreneurial mindset to their values, expectations, and impact on workplace dynamics. With their technological proficiency, creativity, adaptability, and commitment to social impact, Gen Alpha will drive innovation, reshape industries, and redefine the future of work. The pertinent question we need to ask ourselves is to what extent we have studied our next generation of learners in Sri Lanka. It is high time for policymakers and educators in Sri Lanka to make vital changes in the education sector to guide the new generation into the next level of life, as Gen Alpha and Gen Z are the major population cohorts that will shape our motherland in the years to come.
