Coding and Public Speaking: Old Soft Skills For A New Challenging Digital World

In a rapidly evolving world, education is undergoing profound changes as the traditional model struggles to prepare students for 21st-century challenges. Technology is making much traditional knowledge obsolete, creating the need to teach specific skills early on. However, superficial learning of technology can lead to a loss of essential skills and educational disparities. To address this, two key cross-cutting skills are proposed: coding and communication skills. Coding, not just as a standalone subject but integrated into all disciplines, fosters creativity, problem-solving, and adaptability—crucial qualities in a digital world always more hinging on AIs. Communication skills, including public speaking and verbal expression, are essential for effectively conveying ideas, especially after the pandemic, which has heightened presentation anxiety. These competencies, ideally taught by qualified teachers, aim to develop well-rounded and confident individuals. Focusing on them means preparing students to think critically, communicate effectively, and navigate the digital world, creating an educational foundation that meets modern societal needs.