6 out of 10 Argentinians believe that their children will work in jobs that do not exist yet.

A new international report conducted by Banco Santander together with consulting firm Ipsos shows a growing perception in Argentina:  60% of citizens believe that future generations will work in jobs that do not yet exist. This statement summarizes the current challenge faced by the educational system and the labor market in light of the unstoppable advance of technology and, especially, Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The study titled Skills of the Future gathers data from 15 countries in Europe and America, and allows for a glimpse of a structural transformation: the ongoing updating of skills is becoming the new normal, and practical experience is beginning to be valued more than formal degrees.

AI, continuous learning, and new educational demands

Artificial Intelligence is emerging as the most relevant driver of change. In Argentina, 58% of respondents state that mastering this technology will be essential to keep or access a job. On a global scale, one in three fears that their current position will be replaced by AI.

"The rise of Artificial Intelligence is changing not only the way we work, but also the way we learn. We have a collective responsibility to support this change with more accessible and ongoing training opportunities," said Alejandro Butti, CEO of Santander Argentina.

However, barriers persist: 8 out of 10 Argentinians feel the need to upskill, but cost and lack of time are the main obstacles. In addition, there is criticism of the system: 44% consider the public offering of ongoing training to be insufficient, and 43% point out that companies should offer more training to their employees.

Practical education: an irreversible trend

The report's data show a clear disconnect between formal education and the labor market. Nearly 40% of Argentinians would choose a different career if they could go back, and most young people between 25 and 34 years old believe that practical experience and non-formal training will be more valuable in the future.

In this context, Santander Open Academy emerges as a platform seeking to reduce that gap. Through agreements with institutions such as Harvard Business Publishing, London School of Economics (LSE), Cambridge, and Google, it offers free access to courses, scholarships, and content.

"The private sector now has the opportunity—and the responsibility—to be an active driver of change," said Butti.  "At Santander, we promote education and entrepreneurship as central pillars to close the talent gap, support workforce transformation, and generate impactful development."

The future of work: an opportunity for Argentina

The report also reveals that 71% of Argentinians want to continue working in the country over the next 10 years, which highlights a collective will to build a better future within national borders. For this, it will be key to invest in technical training, digitalization, and soft skills, which are currently the most in-demand by companies.

Additionally, those who upskill the most are professionals with university degrees and in mid-level positions, which underscores the need to expand access to ongoing education to other sectors.

Finally, public universities and programs taught by renowned professionals are the most valued for further training, which sets out a clear roadmap to strengthen the educational ecosystem.

Main findings of the report

• 60% believe that future generations will work in jobs that have not yet been invented.
• 45% assume that ongoing training is an individual responsibility.
• 39% would change their educational choice if they could.
• Practical experience will be valued more than university degrees.
• The areas most offered by companies are technology and digitalization.

The conclusion is clear: it is not just about anticipating the future, but about building it from today, with technology, practical education, and collaboration between the public and private sectors.