Employees of the Future: Expected Competences at the Higher Education Level

Abstract

Abstract Given the changing nature of the modern economy, technological advances and increasing globalization, labor markets are presenting university graduates with new challenges in terms of the competences expected of them. The aim of this article is to evaluate and forecast the future of labor market demands in relation to the competences of future employees. A comprehensive analysis of these expectations is presented, drawing on findings from the desk research method, further supplemented with a qualitative study. The discussion focuses on identifying key competences that employers are looking for in today’s business environment and the competences that will be necessary in the long term. The paper contributes to the ongoing debate on the transformation of curricula in higher education, especially in relation to business schools, emphasizing the need to continually monitor market expectations and make necessary adjustments to curricula. The conclusions from this study are intended to serve as a source of inspiration for decision-makers responsible for educational programs at universities, especially those with a business profile, and other stakeholders aiming to bridge the gap between the academic world and the dynamically changing labor market.