Business leaders are urgently calling for Jersey to reform its education system and workforce policy to keep up with fast-changing advancements in technology and artificial intelligence.
In a white paper published this week, the IoD – which brings together leaders from all island industries – offered to work with the Government of Jersey and respective stakeholders to begin “urgent action” to develop a “future-ready workforce” that it believes would bolster the island’s prospects in the digital age.
The document, titled ‘Supporting next generation education and development in the digital age’, outlined the need for education reform and integrating AI literacy, cybersecurity and “digital ethics” into the school curriculum, alongside critical thinking and collaboration.
Our education system needs to adapt.
Iod white paper
Our workplace needs to adapt.
Our Island needs to adapt.
The report suggested that the current model of rote memorisation in schools should shift to interdisciplinary and problem-solving approaches, and emphasised the need for community collaboration to address issues such as online harm and safeguarding.
Aligning AI use in education, governance and business strategies was also listed as a priority.
The white paper then pointed to the need for business leaders to better understand the importance of cybersecurity, governance, and transparency as the adoption of AI and other technologies rises in the workplace – as does skepticism about its processes.
Boosting work-based learning opportunities for students was also raised, which the IoD said could be fulfilled by strengthening partnerships between industry and education.
“We must acknowledge that the world has changed and continues to change.
IoD white paper
Education must change with it. We need our young people to enter the workplace with the right skills and experiences”
Alex Ruddy, Chair of the organisation said that preparing Jersey’s students for the workforce is “not just about integrating new technologies, but also about fostering a culture of continuous learning and ethical responsibility.”
“By working together, we can ensure that Jersey remains at the forefront of innovation and sustainability,” she said.
Mrs Ruddy then confirmed that Education Minister, Deputy Rob Ward and his team have committed to engaging with the IoD to discuss the topic and develop a “strong partnership” over the coming months.
“This is a community issue,” Mrs Ruddy added. “IoD Jersey urges all business leaders, organisations, educators and parents to collaborate to ensure the sustainability of our island and future workforce.”