THE ROLE OF EDUCATIONAL SYSTEMS IN DEVELOPING THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY SKILLS: PERSPECTIVES AND INITIATIVES OF GULF COOPERATION COUNCIL COUNTRIES
Abstract
In the dynamic landscape of the 21st century, the global economy is increasingly driven by knowledge and innovation. This shift necessitates a re-evaluation of educational paradigms to equip individuals with the essential skills required to thrive in the knowledge economy. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, characterized by rapid economic development, are at the forefront of this transformative era, facing the challenge of aligning education with the demands of the 21st century. This research aims to explore the importance of 21st century skills globally and in the context of the GCC countries, focusing on the intersection of education, skills development, and the evolving knowledge economy. A comprehensive literature review, qualitative interviews with educators, policymakers, and educational experts, in the GCC region, form the basis of this research. The study examines current educational practices, identifies key 21st century skills, and assesses their integration into the education systems of the GCC countries. Preliminary findings underscore the urgency for a paradigm shift in education to foster 21st century skills such as critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and digital literacy. While some GCC countries have made strides in this direction, challenges persist, including curriculum alignment, teacher training, and the need for agile educational policies.
Keywords: 21st Century skills, Education, Knowledge Economy, Gulf Cooperation Council Countries, Skills development.
