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NEWS & CURRENT AFFAIRS

The Nairobian

You must prepare your child for the fast changing digital technology era

Opinion

By Patrick Osewe | Jul 24, 2024

**Participate in your child’s career guidance by staying informed about digital trends.** [iStockphoto]

The world has changed with the emergence of digital technology, and the future of work is being reshaped at an unprecedented pace. Thus, as a parent, you may be wondering how to best prepare your child for jobs of the future.

One thing is for sure: these jobs will require new skills. Your child is growing up in a world where artificial intelligence (AI), large language model (LLM), virtual and augmented reality (VAR), blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are not merely catchphrases but rather essential components of the workplace.

The employment market has become more dynamic and occasionally unpredictable, making it harder than ever for young people to choose their career paths. For high school students standing at the threshold of their professional lives, this changing environment can be both exciting and overwhelming.

This is where career guidance becomes extremely important. In the digital age, this goes beyond simply matching interests to job titles. A well-designed mentorship programme can act as a lighthouse, shedding light on possible career routes and offering priceless insights into the competencies needed to succeed in the digital sphere.

Without proper guidance, your child might overlook or simply miss exciting possibilities that align perfectly with their skills and passions.

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This mentorship involves developing a deep understanding of the digital ecosystem, identifying transferable skills, fostering adaptability. It is important to note that the approach to career guidance may differ based on your child’s age.

For younger children, the focus might be on developing digital literacy and exploring various fields, while for high school students, it could involve more specific career exploration and skill development.

It is also important to note that the digital revolution has made it harder to distinguish between various industries. A background in computer technology, for example, can lead to jobs in banking, healthcare, entertainment, or even agriculture.

With career mentorship, your child will be able to understand these intersections and leverage them to create a unique and fulfilling career path. The range of possible jobs keep growing due to the fast-evolving nature of digital technology. Similarly, the idea of a “job for life” will likewise become less common. That means career development assistance can instill the importance of developing a growth mindset and the ability to adapt to new challenges and opportunities.

Proper job counselling can help your child develop digital citizenship, understand the broader implications of technology on society, and prepare for potential challenges in their career journey.

Lastly, the digital world has opened-up global opportunities like never before. Remote work, international collaborations, and digital nomadism are increasingly common. Employment guidance can help your child understand these global dynamics and prepare them to thrive in an interconnected world.

Considering this, vocational coaching is now required in the era of digital technology rather than being a luxury. It can assist your child in learning how to deal with the challenges of the contemporary job market, finding interesting opportunities, honing critical skills, and adjusting to change.

Investing in thorough career coaching now will not only help your child get ready for their first job but also provide them with the skills and mindset they need to thrive in a world where digital innovation is shaping.

As a parent, you play a crucial role in this process. You can actively participate in your child’s career guidance by staying informed about digital trends, encouraging their interests in technology, and helping them find resources and mentorship opportunities.