The conversation about the future of work has become increasingly complex as we navigate an era of unprecedented volatility and uncertainty. Many jobs that will exist in the next decade are not yet on our radar, making it challenging to envision the future of work. The landscape is changing rapidly, necessitating the embrace of new skills such as agility, resilience, and effective communication.

The Role of Technology

One key area where these skills are indispensable is technology. Navigating the digital landscape is becoming increasingly vital. Placing technology at the service of human development involves making informed decisions about when and how to use technology to enhance progress rather than hinder it.

Recent years have highlighted both challenges and opportunities in maintaining a human-centred approach in UNITAR’s work as digital solutions rise. The global pandemic catalyzed rapid innovation in digital tools, enabling the continuation of crucial training programs despite widespread disruptions. During this time, UNITAR's work on youth empowerment in Colombia, Liberia, and other regions demonstrated how digital and hybrid learning formats could sustain peacebuilding efforts even under strict social distancing measures. With advancements in AI, technology has become an indispensable tool in all walks of life. In critical times, manifesting agility in the workplace involves not just adapting quickly but also asking the right questions and seeking thoughtful answers.

Inquiry-Driven Approach

At UNITAR, an inquiry-driven approach helps tailor solutions to unique challenges rather than relying on one-size-fits-all answers. For instance, when applying digital and hybrid solutions to learning, we ask: What are the specific needs and limitations of our audience, and how can we make our training accessible to everyone? Through these questions, we understand our audience's needs, tech skills, and limitations. We consider demographics, technological baselines, and digital literacy levels, ensuring our methods are fit-for-purpose and accessible. By listening and being empathetic, we understand that young participants may juggle online participation with other responsibilities at home, including serving as breadwinners. Therefore, when using hybrid or digital approaches to create spaces for meaningful engagement and learning, it is essential to be mindful of the target audience’s needs and lived realities.

Maintaining Engagement and Wellbeing

In contexts of uncertainty and volatility, we have also questioned the most effective ways to keep participants engaged while recognizing the effects of these circumstances on learners’ well-being and cognitive ability. In response, we provide alternatives, such as backup plans and a variety of learning formats to keep everyone involved. For example, we use simple, low-bandwidth solutions and include graphical and written instructions to make digital tools easier to navigate. Additionally, we adopt a trauma-informed approach, acknowledging the potential negative effects of crises on cognitive function.

In a world increasingly characterized by VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity) contexts, building resilience and agility is essential. The ability to adapt quickly and bounce back from setbacks helps navigate uncertain times. Additionally, the ability and flexibility to continue learning are crucial. Regardless of age and expertise, new tools emerge daily, and those who can find and embrace learning opportunities will thrive.

The future of work demands a shift in skills and approaches. Embracing technology while ensuring it is used ethically and inclusively can enhance human development and contribute to peacebuilding efforts worldwide. UNITAR will continue to ask crucial questions to address the uncertainties of the future. Let us embrace these changes and lead the way in making our work environments better for everyone.

For more details on our approach to creating meaningful spaces of interaction and learning, read our full paper: “Building Peace from a Distance.”