China, Korea, and Australia introduce blockchain and digital currency curricula to boost employment potential

Three major powers are betting on the long-term potential of cryptocurrencies, digital currencies, and blockchain.

In separate developments, schools and publishers in Korea, China, and Australia introduced blockchain and digital currency-related coursework for graduates and government officials, guided by narratives of future opportunities and concerns of potential unemployment.

On May 26, Melbourne's RMIT University launched postgraduate courses in blockchain and cybersecurity.

RMIT notes the global blockchain industry is expected to rise over 80 percent year-on-year, and only "One in 20" managers are able to find relevant talent.

"Cybersecurity and blockchain technologies are emerging as business-critical skills and we are delivering the training that provides those skills in our workforce," noted Rupert Colester of IBM Australia.

As per local publication Weixin last week, the Central Party School of the Communist Party of China published a book as part of an ongoing series on disruptive technologies, which includes AI, blockchain, machine learning, and other upcoming tech.

Last year, the country's prestigious Zhenjiang University launched a blockchain graduate course, while Chengdu University started a Bachelors's in Blockchain Studies this year.

In Korea, weeks after the government mulled a $400 million blockchain fund, a top-ranking university is investing in blockchain- and fintech-based infrastructure to equip graduates with necessary skills.

Daejeon University announced on May 26 the opening of it new fintech-focused lab called "Future Convergence." Blockchain features majorly in the plans, with the university exploring ways to integrate the technology into smart cities, smart factories, and advancements in healthcare.

The university notes knowledge of blockchain technology and fintech may bolster employment among Korean graduates, who suffer the ill-effects of a saturated job market.