The future of digital skills in the workplace is far from uncertain, despite recent job losses in the big tech sector. While some may speculate about the future prospects of tech graduates, there is still a significant skills gap in technology that needs to be filled. This is because digital expertise is not only required by big tech companies but by organizations across all sectors.
To ensure the growth and innovation of Ireland’s workforce, the prioritization of skills and talent is crucial. The future of education and the future of work go hand in hand, and it is essential to bridge the gap between the higher education sector and industry. Collaboration between academia and industry is necessary to meet the changing demands of the job market and drive innovation.
Education plays a vital role in transforming lives. The National Access Plan by the Higher Education Authority aims to increase participation in higher education among a diverse student body, ensuring an inclusive and equitable environment for student success. By increasing access to education for all, we can create a resilient population that can adapt to a changing world and contribute to the economy.
Although there have been fluctuations in the employment prospects of tech graduates, the overall trend shows impressive growth in the number of people working in the sector. However, there is still a shortage of experts in fields such as AI, data analytics, fintech, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. To address this gap, initiatives like DIGITAL Europe and Springboard+ have been launched to provide the necessary education and training. These skills are not only essential for tech companies but for every organization.
There is a misconception that Ireland produces cookie-cutter tech graduates exclusively for big multinational companies. However, this overlooks the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the country. SMEs account for more than 99.8% of all enterprises and require digital skills just as much as larger companies. Tech graduates have a wide range of career opportunities beyond the technology sector, including retail, banking, design, manufacturing, insurance, and the civil service.
To further address the skills gap, the National College of Ireland has launched the Digital4Business project. This four-year, €19.92 million EU-funded initiative aims to create a national skills platform that uses technology to transform upskilling methods. Graduates of this European master’s program will be equipped with the necessary digital skills to contribute to business development across various sectors.
The European Union has chosen Skills as the theme for its ‘European Year’ in 2023, placing a renewed focus on upskilling and lifelong learning. In Ireland, employers are increasingly hiring for skills, but education remains the key to bridging the skills gap. A talented workforce that values education will be crucial in ensuring future success.
In conclusion, despite recent job losses in big tech companies, the demand for digital skills in the workplace remains high. There is a skills gap in technology that needs to be addressed, and education plays a crucial role in filling this gap. Collaboration between academia and industry, initiatives like DIGITAL Europe and Springboard+, and the recognition of SMEs’ importance are all steps towards a resilient and skilled workforce. By prioritizing education and upskilling, Ireland can continue to build an innovative and high-performing workforce that meets the demands of a rapidly changing world.
