As the global labor market undergoes rapid transformation, educators and policymakers are increasingly questioning whether traditional approaches to education are sufficient to prepare young people for the future. In Latvia, education has long emphasized academic knowledge, memorization, and exam performance. While this provides a solid foundation, it no longer fully reflects the skills and competencies required in a fast-changing world.
“Knowing the right answers is no longer enough,” says Dr. Amanda Easterling Romey, Chair of the Board and Director of the International School of Riga (ISR). “Young people must be able to think critically, adapt quickly, and apply what they know in real-world situations. The key question is whether we are preparing students for exams or for life and careers.”
A Changing World, A Changing Workforce
Professions once considered stable are evolving or disappearing altogether. Advances in technology, artificial intelligence, and automation are reshaping industries at unprecedented speed, while global competition intensifies. In this environment, specific technical skills can become outdated within a few years, making adaptability one of the most valuable competencies for long-term success.
Employers increasingly seek individuals who can analyze information, collaborate across cultures, communicate effectively, and take responsibility for their own learning. Emotional intelligence, problem-solving, and the ability to continuously reskill are now as important as academic achievement.
“These realities demand a different approach to education,” Dr. Romey explains. “One that focuses not only on what students learn, but on how they learn, think, and grow.”
The Role of International Education
This is where an international education plays an increasingly important role. For nearly 30 years, the International School of Riga has offered the International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes to Latvian and international families, serving students from early childhood through graduation.
International education is often misunderstood as simply learning in English or preparing students to study abroad. In reality, its purpose is much broader. The IB programme emphasizes inquiry, research skills, intercultural understanding, and independent thinking competencies that are relevant across countries and professions.
“These are not optional extras,” says Dr. Romey. “They are foundational skills for success in life after school.”
Equally important is the focus on the whole learner. Students learn to reflect on their progress, manage time, set goals, and take ownership of their learning skills, which eases the transition to university and professional environments.
Bridging Local and Global Expectations
Latvia’s national education standards play a vital role in preserving language, culture, and identity. However, they do not always fully reflect the expectations of a globalized labor market. International frameworks help bridge this gap by combining local context with globally recognized approaches to teaching and learning.
“When students enter international universities or workplaces, confidence matters,” Dr. Romey notes. “Those accustomed to inquiry, discussion, and independent thinking are far better prepared to succeed.”
Responding to Labor Market Trends
Recent labor market studies highlight significant shifts in workforce demand. While some fields face an oversupply of graduates, shortages persist in engineering, natural sciences, healthcare, and technology. At the same time, artificial intelligence is reshaping work across all sectors, requiring individuals who can adapt and learn continuously.
The post-secondary choices of ISR graduates reflect an early awareness of these trends. Over the past four years, the number of graduates pursuing medicine, healthcare, and laboratory sciences has increased by 73%, while enrollment in technology, engineering, and mathematics programmes has grown by 23%.
These outcomes are supported by ISR’s structured approach to career education, including close collaboration with an experienced university counselor and partnerships with universities worldwide.
Academic Success with Global Reach
The IB Diploma Programme is widely recognized as strong preparation for higher education. ISR graduates continue their studies across Latvia, Europe, North America, and Australia, including institutions such as the Stockholm School of Economics in Riga, New York University, and the University of Sydney.
In 2025, 100% of ISR graduates successfully earned their IB Diploma, reflecting both academic rigor and sustained support. More importantly, students leave school with the skills to make informed, purposeful decisions about their futures.
Education as an Investment in Latvia’s Future
“These results are not just about one school,” Dr. Romey emphasizes. “They show what education aligned with global realities can achieve.”
International education, delivered in the right environment, develops adaptable young people while contributing to a country’s long-term development. A globally competent workforce strengthens human capital, attracts investment, and enhances international competitiveness.
Importantly, the goal is not to encourage young people to leave Latvia permanently. “The aim is to give students a strong foundation,” Dr. Romey explains, “so they can compete globally and choose how and where they contribute, including here at home.”
International education, she concludes, is not a luxury. It is a strategic investment in Latvia’s most valuable resource: its people.
