The twenty-first century is characterised by rapid technological advancement, globalisation, and continuous transformation in education and employment. In such a dynamic environment, the traditional understanding of literacy has expanded beyond reading and writing to include adaptability and lifelong learning. Alvin Toffler's well-known statement, "The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn" (as cited in Warrell, 2020), has become increasingly relevant in modern education. For students, the ability to continuously update knowledge and adapt to changing realities has emerged as a critical competency for academic and professional success.

Learning traditionally refers to the acquisition of knowledge, skills, and values through formal and informal educational experiences. However, scholars and management thinkers argue that learning alone is insufficient in an era where information and professional requirements evolve rapidly. Hedberg (1981) emphasised that organisations and individuals must unlearn obsolete knowledge to remain effective in changing environments. Unlearning involves discarding outdated assumptions, routines, and practices that may hinder growth and innovation. For students, this may include abandoning rigid study habits, memorisation-based approaches, or resistance to new technologies and communication methods.

Research suggests that unlearning is often more difficult than learning itself because individuals become attached to familiar patterns of thinking and behaviour. Warrell (2020) argues that people frequently struggle not because they lack intelligence or ability, but because they resist letting go of what previously worked for them. Similarly, a Harvard Business Review article explains that success in the modern world requires individuals to challenge deeply rooted assumptions and remain open to change ("Learn, Unlearn, and Relearn," 2009). Students who fail to adapt may find it difficult to cope with evolving educational systems and workplace expectations.

Relearning refers to the process of acquiring updated knowledge, perspectives, and skills after unlearning outdated ones. This concept became particularly visible during the COVID-19 pandemic, when students and educators worldwide were compelled to shift from traditional classroom learning to digital and hybrid modes of education. Many students had to relearn how to collaborate, communicate, and engage with academic content through virtual platforms. The experience demonstrated that flexibility and adaptability are essential for coping with uncertainty and disruption.

The importance of relearning is further reinforced by contemporary workplace trends. According to Petriglieri (2020), the future of work demands agility, emotional resilience, and continuous skill development rather than dependence on static expertise. Automation, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation are rapidly changing the nature of jobs, making lifelong learning essential for career sustainability. Consequently, students must cultivate curiosity, critical thinking, and openness to innovation to remain competitive in the global economy.

Educational institutions also play a significant role in fostering the capacity to learn, unlearn, and relearn. Rather than focusing solely on content delivery, modern education must encourage inquiry-based learning, creativity, and adaptability. However, the ultimate responsibility lies with students themselves. As Warrell (2020) observes, the key to unlearning does not rest solely with teachers but with learners who are willing to question their own assumptions and embrace new perspectives.

In conclusion, learning, unlearning, and relearning have become indispensable competencies in the twenty-first century. In a rapidly evolving world, students cannot rely exclusively on previously acquired knowledge or fixed methods of thinking. Instead, they must continuously adapt, reflect, and develop new skills to meet emerging challenges. Students who embrace lifelong learning and intellectual flexibility will be better prepared to navigate uncertainty, contribute meaningfully to society, and achieve long-term personal and professional success.