By Mark Vink
Secondary Business Management, Economics and Start Up Studio Teacher
As AI changes the way we work and live, it’s becoming increasingly clear that the most important skills for the future aren’t just technical, they’re human. In a world where machines can do more of the routine tasks, people who can adapt, be creative, think critically, act ethically, and work well with others will stand out. At Northbridge International School Cambodia (NISC), the Learn to Start program helps our Grade 9 students develop those exact skills.
Today, being ready for the job market means more than training for one career path. AI is shifting roles quickly, and students need to be flexible. Through Learn to Start, students take on business or community projects, working to find creative solutions to real challenges. With guidance from mentors and their own research, they learn how to understand industries, spot trends, and adjust their ideas as they go.
These hands-on experiences help students grow skills that matter: problem-solving, teamwork, ethical thinking, and the ability to adapt - things AI may not be able do for us. These are also the traits that future employers and communities will look for.
The recent Startup Studio Networking Night gave students a chance to share their projects with parents, teachers and members of the Phnom Penh business community. It was great to see how confidently they explained their work and the thinking behind it.
We’re proud of what this year’s students have achieved, and we’re looking forward to seeing how next year’s Grade 9 cohort will continue to take on new challenges and come up with fresh ideas.
In this hyper-connected world, balancing academic demands, social relationships, extracurricular commitments, and personal growth becomes a challenging task that requires considerable amount of effort and resilience.
When a student enters our Design workshop for the first time—curious and perhaps a bit unsure—they may not see themselves as a designer. Yet, they already are. Design isn't confined to sketchbooks or software; it begins with the simple act of noticing.
