The development of students' skills from the perspective of the evolution of industry 4.0

Abstract

With the advent of Industry 4.0, education systems globally face a critical need to adapt to rapidly changing technological and professional demands. This study investigates the alignment of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) skills among students with the evolving requirements of Industry 4.0, using data from a survey at Cahul State University.

By analyzing skill deficiencies and students’ awareness of sustainable development and digital tools, the study identifies both challenges and opportunities in curriculum design. Findings reveal that students acknowledge their skill gaps and demonstrate an openness to enhancing their competencies in areas essential for modern industry, including digital literacy, sustainability, and entrepreneurial capabilities. The results support recommendations for targeted curriculum enhancements, which could be pivotal in developing a workforce prepared to thrive in the digital economy.