In a recent study titled 'Future of the Skills Landscape 2024,' conducted by ed-tech startup Hero Vired, a staggering 82% of working professionals in India expressed concern over the potential redundancy of their roles due to emerging technological advances.
The report, based on a survey of 2 lakh students, professionals, and academics, underscores the growing unease within the workforce, highlighting the imperative need for continuous reskilling in the face of evolving job markets.
Despite fears of job loss, an encouraging 78% of respondents view upskilling as essential to maintaining relevance in their respective fields. The study reveals that artificial intelligence (AI) skills have become a focal point for career growth, with 39% acknowledging their significant impact on promotion opportunities within current jobs.
However, dissatisfaction arises as 43% of respondents express discontent with limited AI training offerings from their employers, revealing a gap between the perceived importance of AI skills and the actual support provided by companies.
The launch of ChatGPT has brought AI into mainstream discussions about technology's role in workplaces, with 90% of respondents predicting AI as the most sought-after capability in five years. Moreover, a striking 80% believe that AI skills will be the highest paying by 2028.
The report sheds light on professionals' upskilling habits, with 43.5% of individuals aged 18-55 recognizing the need to upskill every six months. Edtech platforms are playing a pivotal role, with 81% of those who upskilled last year opting for online courses. Additionally, 83% acknowledge that acquiring AI skills would enhance their job prospects.
While AI promises lucrative salary hikes, the study emphasizes the continued importance of soft skills. Workers stress the need to focus on non-technical capabilities like communication, setting humans apart as automation accelerates. The top three non-technology sector jobs expected to be in high demand include digital marketing, green jobs, and mental health coaching, reflecting the evolving landscape of job preferences.
In response to the findings, Akshay Munjal, founder and CEO of Hero Vired, emphasized the crucial role of upskilling in addressing challenges posed by rapid technological advancements, preparing future leaders to navigate through these changes and leverage technology to their advantage.