Page 32 - ICETD2019 Programme Book

International Conference on Education and Teacher Development

Keynote Address 2

Positive Education and Future Proofing Our Youth

Professor Mustak Al-Atabi

Provost and Chief Executive Officer
Heriot-Watt University
Kuala Lumpur

Abstract
“Today, as the Fourth Industrial Revolution unfolds, automation and technological
advancement are changing the skills landscape and transforming the nature of work.
This will have far-reaching consequences on human motivation, productivity and the
sense identity. According to McKinsey Global Institute’s report, ‘Jobs lost, jobs

gained: Workforce transitions in a time of automation’ as many as 375 million
people in the global workforce will need to switch occupational categories as the
technological advances of artificial intelligence take place. Graduates are expected to
deal with the uncertainties of the future, while constantly upskilling themselves,
developing resilience, cultivating strong social networks and having a clear sense of
purpose to make a difference to the world.

In this talk, Mushtak will provide a framework for understanding the dynamics of

job creation and destruction and what skills and attributes our teachers should focus
on developing in order for our youth to remain relevant, productive and connected.

Changing Perspectives and Approaches in Education and Teacher Development 32