Why universities should take note of these ‘three pillars of action’

20 Aug 2019

Illuminating the future of work, the latest report by the International Labour Organization (ILO) asks readers to seize the moment and unlock the opportunities spurred by technological development and demographic shifts.

Stemming from the ILO Global Commission on the Future of Work, the report – named Work for a Brighter Future: Report of the Global Commission on the Future of Work – aims to transform its readers’ minds by broadening their expectations of impending job roles and industry fields.

Alongside its many interesting angles, the ‘three pillars of action’ are drawing the attention of educators and employers alike, triggering them to consider different ways of driving growth, equity and sustainability for future and present generations.

The latest @ilo report shows slow progress on #SDG8. It’s vital that we reinvigorate national and international efforts to set all nations on a path towards decent work, sustained growth and environmental integrity. https://t.co/EDjpCoTjrw #HLPF2019 #ilo100 pic.twitter.com/GUaTnGhjSP

— Guy Ryder (@GuyRyder) July 16, 2019

Pillar 1: Increasing investment in people’s capabilities

For universities, it’s time to invest more in students’ capabilities.

In order to thrive in a carbon-neutral digital age, the report believes that living standards need to progress and that opportunities must widen.

ILO recommends lifelong learning for all, supporting people through transitions, the transformative agenda for gender equality and strengthening social protection.

No one really knows what the future of work will look like, but the International Labour Organization has a rough idea. Source: Vladimir Kudinov/Unsplash

Pillar 2: Increasing investment in the institutions of work

With aims to strengthen and to renew the institutions of work, this pillar promotes workplace revitalisation.

“From regulations and employment contracts to collective agreements and labour inspection systems, these institutions are the building blocks of just societies.”

As such, universities must watch out for changing trends in workplaces and start reflecting these in their curricula.

ILO also recommends establishing a Universal Labour Guarantee, expanding time sovereignty, revitalising collective representation and technology for decent work.

Pillar 3: Increasing investment in decent and sustainable work

The third pillar enables universities to witness the effects of new technologies, demographic upheaval and climate change.

“Major investments are needed to shape and guide these transformations to create decent work. Countries must now prioritise long-term, sustainable investments that favour human development and protect the planet, in line with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.”

Teaching students about the UN 2030 Agenda and ensuring they understand the importance of sustainability will help universities create a generation filled with active change-makers and innovators.

The ILO suggests transforming economies and a human-centred business and economic model to put this pillar into action.

The @ILO Report on the Future of Work is a brave and forward looking. It calls for extending fundamental rights, adequate living wages, maximum working hours and OSH protection to all workers regardless of employment status https://t.co/7ofTUn7nUG

— Valerio De Stefano (@valeriodeste) January 22, 2019

A report bursting with ideas, it’s a great starting point for universities looking to undergo a curriculum overhaul and inspire students with fresh initiatives.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the future of work, this report will surely trigger debate and discussion currently surrounding the future of work.