In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, the demand for AI-related skills is outpacing the available talent pool, leading to a widening skills gap. According to recent research by Skillsoft, this gap is prompting IT leaders in India to double down on efforts to enhance staff training.
The research reveals that two-thirds of IT decision-makers are grappling with skills deficiencies in their teams, a challenge comparable to the one faced in 2022. This reality has triggered a fundamental shift in attitudes towards staff training practices, with IT leaders acknowledging the imperative of addressing these gaps.
In 2022, a significant 45% of IT professionals expressed a belief that management did not see tangible benefits from training initiatives. Fast forward to 2023, and this skepticism has dramatically reduced, with only 15% sharing the same sentiment. This shift underscores the growing recognition among business leaders that skills development is now a critical business imperative.
AI and machine learning (ML) have emerged as the focal point for many IT decision-makers, with 38% identifying them as top priorities. However, a concerning 43% rated their teams' proficiency in AI and ML as 'low,' indicating a substantial misalignment between demand and existing skill sets.
The report also sheds light on the challenges faced by IT leaders in talent acquisition and retention. Nearly a third (30%) of respondents reported difficulty in hiring qualified AI and ML professionals, and 23% identified talent retention as their most significant challenge in 2023.
The broader industry sentiment, as revealed by a recent Deloitte survey, echoes these concerns. AI skills deficiencies rank among the top three concerns for 31% of organizations, yet only 17% are making significant investments in worker training and development to address these deficiencies.
Compounding the issue is the limited global supply of AI experts, estimated at just 22,000 worldwide according to Deloitte. This scarcity has led to an increased value placed on certifications related to these technologies. An overwhelming 97% of IT leaders in India believe that certified staff adds substantial value to their organizations.
Despite this recognition, there remains a considerable gap in investment in professional development. Forty percent of IT leaders express the belief that their organizations are not investing enough in professional development initiatives. Moreover, a striking 80% find their current training programs ineffective at developing the skills needed to navigate the evolving AI landscape.
In conclusion, the AI skills gap is a pressing challenge for IT leaders in India, driving a renewed focus on staff training and development.
As the demand for AI skills continues to rise, businesses must be deliberate and proactive in building the necessary capabilities to avoid falling behind.
The value of certifications is on the rise, signaling a potential solution to bridge the existing gap and empower the workforce with the skills needed to thrive in the digital age.
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