Development of 21st Century Skills in Croatia’s Higher Education System

Abstract

Social and economic developments of the 21st century require education systems that enable young people to acquire knowledge, skills, and competencies which, upon completion of their studies, would work in their favour and allow them to actively participate in the globalised and competitive labour market. Although the low employment rate is often caused by economic factors, one should also account for the interperson­al factors that may help individuals increase their chances of finding a job. Job seekers nowadays need to possess competencies known as 21st-cen­tury skills. This study included an assessment of the 21st-century skills ac­quired during academic studies. Creativity, innovation, communication in foreign languages, and practical application of knowledge were found to be the most poorly developed competencies, whereas the ability to work in a team, learn, and manage information were among the best-developed competencies.