Tec21: Developing Skills for Lifelong Learning – Focusing on Essential Skills, Upskilling and Reskilling

Prior to the arrival of the pandemic, the global education sector had been underlining the significance of revamping educational models to better align with workforce requirements. Many countries are recognizing the need for innovative academic programs, especially due to nearshoring trends. In higher education, the focus should extend beyond essential skills to include lifelong learning, embracing concepts like upskilling, reskilling, and continuous self-improvement. We stress the importance of universities aligning their educational systems with workforce demands. This involves recognizing four fundamental functions of universities as preparing students for research and teaching, providing specialized training, fostering accessibility and lifelong learning, and facilitating international collaboration. The Tec21 educational model of Tecnológico de Monterrey is introduced as a curriculum that empowers students to develop both discipline-specific expertise and essential life competencies. Collaboration with industry-partners from various sectors is emphasized to provide practical insights and real-world application of theoretical knowledge. Overall, this article underscores the significance of active learning, adaptability, and continuous self-improvement in higher education.