By 2022, an operational stock of almost four million industrial robots are expected to work in factories worldwide. These robots will play a vital role in automating production to speed up the post-Corona economy.

Robots are driving demand for skilled workers, according to the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), and so educational systems must effectively adjust to this demand.

IFR President Milton Guerry said: Governments and companies around the globe now need to focus on providing the right skills necessary to work with robots and intelligent automation systems. This is important to take maximum advantage of the opportunities that these technologies offer. The post-Corona recovery will further accelerate the deployment of robotics. Policies and strategies are important to help workforces make the transition to a more automated economy.

Saadia Zahidi, Head of Education, Gender and Employment Initiatives at the World Economic Forum, agreed: Very few countries are taking the bull by the horns when it comes to adapting education systems for the age of automation. Those that are, have long had a clear focus on human capital development. Countries in northern Europe, as well as Singapore are probably running some of the most useful experiments for the future world of work.

Robot suppliers support the education of the workforce with practice-oriented training.

IFR General Secretary Dr Susanne Bieller concluded: Re-training the existing workforce is only a short-term measure. We must already start way earlier curricula for schools and undergraduate education need to match the demand of the industry for the workforce of the future. Demand for technical and digital skills is increasing, but equally important are cognitive skills like problem-solving and critical thinking. Economies must embrace automation and build the skills required to profit otherwise they will be at a competitive disadvantage.

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High demand for robotics skills in post-Corona recovery - EPPM