A new survey commissioned by Epson has unveiled alarming trends within the education system in Lithuania, indicating widespread concerns among educators regarding the preparedness of students for the future job market. According to the study, almost half (46%) of the surveyed teachers believe that schools are not providing students with the essential skills needed to thrive in a world dominated by artificial intelligence. Furthermore, a staggering 58% of educators expressed that the educational system lacks the necessary insights on how to prepare modern youth for a workforce that will significantly differ from previous generations' experiences.

Teachers and academics alike emphasize the importance of nurturing unique human attributes to adequately prepare students for jobs that are yet to be fully defined by AI advancements. Key skills identified as crucial for future success include adaptability, analytical thinking, creativity, critical thinking, emotional intelligence, leadership, and problem-solving capabilities. The survey results show that 64% of teachers believe critical thinking will be the most vital skill in the future job market, highlighting a consensus on the need for a change in educational priorities.

Despite the recognition of these necessary skills, the reality within the classrooms is troubling, with 79% of teachers reporting that they do not see sufficient development of these competencies among their students. This disconnect between the perceived importance of critical human skills and their actual implementation in teaching practices raises significant concerns for the effectiveness of the current educational approach and its alignment with the evolving demands of the job market influenced by AI.