The design higher education system of today will not be applicable to the demands and requirements of tomorrow (Munir & Nudin 2021). Furthermore, Generation Alpha introduces a new challenge to our current education systems, demanding a new approach to education. Accordingly, Karen Gross, the author of Breakaway learners, believes that universities should begin adapting to cater to Generation Alpha, suggesting that thinking ahead is crucial in planning and contemplating the future's implications (Hall 2017).

The research study sets out to identify trends through the review of the literature that the current design education system is outdated for the next cohort in higher design education called Generation Alpha. Additionally, the research study predicts an effective approach to educating Generation Alpha in the fashion design higher education sector as potential students and graduates by using secondary research of literature studies globally. This study aimed to contribute to this growing area of research by exploring the most effective education systems for Generation Alpha in the fashion design higher education sector through analysis of Gen Alpha characteristics and anticipated future skills required in the fashion design sector. After reviewing literature focusing on the unique characteristics of Generation Alpha and the anticipated future skills required in the fashion design sector, the Kano Model was utilised to highlight Generation Alpha’s expectations and needs in shaping the future of education.

Firstly, the study identified the unique characteristics of Generation Alpha, such as their strong connection with technology and their need for digital literacy. Accordingly, the findings from the literature review suggest that the fashion design industry is becoming more technology-driven, requiring CAD and robotics skills, amongst other technologies. Consequently, the fashion design higher education system for Generation Alpha should involve digital literacy, robotics, AI, big data analysis, and other STEM-related skills to meet their needs based on Generation Alpha characteristics and prepare them for future fashion design careers.