According to Dr Bradley J Cook, President of the American University of Bahrain, 65 per cent of the jobs that our future generation will be working in the next decade do not exist today. He emphasized that the job scenario will undergo a significant transformation in the future. Dr Cook made these remarks during the inaugural edition of the ‘MSX Chairman’s Dialogue’ organized by Muscat Stock Exchange.
The event, hosted by Major General Mohammed bin Mahfoodh al Ardhi, Chairman of MSX, took place at the MSX Investors Hall. Dr Cook also highlighted the importance of universities forming stronger partnerships with industries to bridge the gap between academia and the workforce. He mentioned that industry-sponsored projects, mentorship programs, and work-integrated learning opportunities will play a crucial role in preparing students for successful careers.
Dr Cook also expressed his belief that AI will revolutionize education, potentially taking it back 2,500 years, which he sees as a positive development. He suggested that future universities may offer more interdisciplinary programs that combine various fields of study to address complex real-world problems. Collaboration across disciplines will be encouraged to foster creativity and innovation. The event was attended by Dr Ali bin Saud al Bimani, Dr Hussein bin Sulaiman al Salmi, CEOs, and other stakeholders.
Dr. Bradley emphasized that the primary goal of higher education should be the well-being of individuals, with a strong focus on health. He stressed that any educational initiatives that do not prioritize human well-being are not beneficial. Dr. Bradley highlighted the importance of both mental and physical health in achieving this goal. He also mentioned the significance of building resilience in students and preparing them for the challenges of the future.
The 'Dialogue' titled 'The Future of Higher Education in the Middle East' aimed to establish a connection between global and Omani experts in their respective fields. Its purpose was to shed light on the present condition of higher education, the crucial role it plays in shaping the future, global dynamics, shifting economies, evolving educational paradigms, and the vision for the future. Mohammed bin Mahfoodh al Ardhi, Chairman of MSX, emphasized that higher education in the Middle East is influenced by various factors such as technological advancements, changing demographics, and economic development.
According to Major General Al Ardhi, technology will continue to be a significant factor in transforming higher education in the Middle East. He highlighted that e-learning platforms, online courses, and virtual classrooms will become increasingly prevalent, providing students with greater flexibility and accessibility.
Dr. Cook, a renowned educationist with almost three decades of executive administrative experience in higher education, expressed his belief in education despite the current challenges faced by the sector.
Al Ardhi expressed his optimism for the enhancement of education quality in the region through international collaborations and partnerships with renowned universities and institutions worldwide. These collaborations would promote knowledge exchange, research collaborations, and faculty exchanges, ultimately fostering a conducive environment for research-oriented programs and the establishment of research centers and technology parks.
