HKFYG Publications September 2020∣Youth Hong Kong
Facing the future U
nprecedented changes are affecting every aspect of our lives and COVID-19 is having significant impact on young people’s expectations. This HKFYG survey explores their perspective and the need to respond. The younger generation needs to be ready to cope with ongoing and emerging challenges so HKFYG conducted an online survey to gather their views on skills needed for the future. It also explored young people’s understanding of the “future skills” concept and how they define leadership qualities. The aim was to get a grasp of current trends and a clearer understanding of how resources might best be allocated by NGOs like the Federation to provide for future needs.
Key findings from youth
Six essential skills, attributes and attitudes are important to youth development Digital skills for example:
● Practical skills including coding and big data analysis ● Qualitative skills for better digital literacy
Innovation & problem-solving
● Over 35% lack the confidence needed to face the future.
for example:
● Nearly 40% think soft skills such as teamwork, interpersonal skills and communication skills are crucial.
● Logical thinking
● They believe important qualities for a future leader are integrity (50%), vision (40%), social responsibility (38%) and empathy (37%).
● Knowledge of STEM ● Curiosity
● Over 70% say chances to develop soft skills/ qualities are inadequate in Hong Kong.
Recommendations ● Future skills development should aim at more than just
enhanced employability.
● Life skills are equally important for overcoming emerging
challenges.
● Balanced hard and soft skills should include practical
knowledge and values education.
● Underlying skills such as empathy and media literacy are
necessary.
● The ability to show respect for others and think positively is vital. 46
Artificial intelligence and automation are transforming the nature of work while technological advances continue to provide new ways of working and living. Strong practical digital skills are therefore very important and digital literacy provides the skills needed to live, learn, work and evaluate in a society where communication and access to information rely increasingly on internet platforms, social media and mobile devices.
An innovative mindset increases the chances of responding well to change and new opportunities. Problem-solving is a vital life skill for work and daily life. The ability to innovate and solve problems can empower youth in both personal and professional life, helping them to create practical and creative solutions to 21st century challenges.
Life planning for example:
● Career identification ● Financial literacy ● Money management ● Knowing how to learn
The decision-making process known as life planning includes financial planning. Regardless of the decision to be made, whether to study, choose a career or have a family, it involves management skills. With changes in demographic structure and the increasing number of elderly people, the ability to plan one’s life well is increasingly relevant and essential.
