Education needs to match rapid technological changes and shifting job market needs - Arc-Lights CEO, Abi Obasanya.

Our Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Arc-Lights Foundation, Abisola Obasanya, has stressed the need for education at all levels to match the technological advancement in the 21st century to prepare learners for the future of work... Abisola, who is also the National Organizer of World Robot Olympiad (WRO), called on all educators to shift from the old ways of memorization to developing future-ready skills and competencies in learners. 

Abi made this call while delivering a keynote address at the Early Years Hub Conference 2025, themed "Child-Centred, Future Secure: Embracing the Whole Child Approach." The conference brought together thought leaders, educators, and innovators in the field of early childhood education to explore evolving methodologies in child development and education.

In her keynote lecture, Abi highlighted the Whole Child Approach, which focuses on ensuring that children’s health, safety, engagement, support, and challenges are all considered in their development. She emphasized the importance of adapting education to match rapid technological changes and shifting job market needs. With technologies like AI, robotics, and virtual reality transforming how we learn and work, Abi pointed out that the focus must shift from simply memorizing facts to developing skills like creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability.

Abi also shared important strategies to improve education for the future. She stressed the need for flexible and comprehensive curricula that can address the diverse needs of children. Another key point was integrating technology in the classroom to enhance learning, as well as training teachers to facilitate personalized learning experiences for each child.

In addition to these strategies, Abi discussed the importance of strong partnerships with parents and communities to support children’s development. She also highlighted the need for effective assessment and monitoring systems to track student progress, as well as the importance of ongoing research and policy development to ensure that early childhood education continues to improve.

Abi’s keynote emphasized how technology, particularly AI, robotics, and virtual classrooms, can help make learning more personalized and foster global collaboration. She concluded her speech by calling on educators, policymakers, and communities to work together to ensure education is inclusive, equitable, and accessible for all children, providing them with the skills they need to succeed in the future.