STEM South West survey finds creativity and problem-solving cited as most important skills for the future
Life
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Research published in advance of the STEM South West Expo has found a difference of opinion between younger millennials and GenZ. Nearly two-thirds (63%) of 25-34-year-olds said they believed technology is equipping children with the skills they’ll need, but less than half (46%) of respondents aged 18-24 agreed. Furthermore, 54% of respondents from the same age bracket said they viewed technology as a distraction.
The nationwide survey of 1000 adults also highlighted a gender gap, where 58% of men agreed technology prepared children for the workplace compared to just 45% of women.
Younger respondents aged 18-24 tended to prioritise technical STEM knowledge (41%), while those aged 25-34 placed more emphasis on creativity and problem-solving (53%), suggesting a further generational shift in priorities.
Men were slightly more likely than women to see STEM skills as essential (30% vs 25%), whereas women leaned towards creativity and adaptability.
Parents’ views were more evenly spread across all three skill areas, highlighting the challenge of preparing children for a future that demands both technical expertise and soft skills.
Mary Good, Chair of STEM South West, said: “These findings highlight the diversity of opinion across Ireland. Older millennials, who are embedded in tech-driven workplaces, may see the benefits, while younger adults, particularly those still in education, may be more aware of technology’s downsides, from screen addiction to overreliance”.
“This feedback suggests that younger adults may be focused on immediate career prospects and educational exposure, while those with more professional experience understand the growing importance of creativity and adaptability in a rapidly changing workplace. But in reality, the future will demand all three – creativity, adaptability, and strong technical STEM knowledge.”
The STEM South West survey also explored which skills people believe will be most valuable for the next generation. When asked what skills would be most valuable for the next generation, creativity and problem-solving emerged as the top priority (37%), followed by adaptability and lifelong learning (35%), and technical STEM knowledge (28%).
“In a world where AI and automation are taking over routine tasks, the human skills of problem-solving, critical thinking and innovation become even more valuable. STEM education sits at the heart of that balance. It gives young people the tools to understand technology, to use it responsibly and imaginatively, and to apply it in ways that improve our world, whether in healthcare, energy, climate, or beyond,” said Good.
“The ability to think creatively, analyse data, and adapt to constant change is what will truly set this generation apart. That’s why fostering STEM skills isn’t just about preparing students for future jobs; it’s about empowering them to shape the future itself.”
STEM South West Expo is taking place on 20 November at Cork City Hall.
TechCentral Reporters