SHAPING INDIA’S FUTURE-READY WORKFORCE

Last Updated on 10th April, 2025
3 minutes, 48 seconds

Description

Copyright infringement not intended

Picture Courtesy: THE HINDU

Context: 

The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 and the QS World Future Skills Index highlight how important it is to prepare people for the jobs of tomorrow. These reports explain what India needs to do to make its workforce ready for the future.

What the Reports Say?

Future of Jobs Report 2025  

The Future of Jobs Report 2025 says big changes are coming to the job market by 2030. New technologies, population changes, and efforts to fight climate change will reshape industries. Employers say 60% of these changes will come from technology, like AI and digital tools. 50% of changes will be due to economic factors, such as inflation or slower growth.

By 2030: 170 million new jobs will be created globally, especially in fields like renewable energy and tech. However, 92 million jobs will disappear because machines or new processes will replace them. This means workers will need new skills.

Employers say 59 out of every 100 workers will need training in areas like analytical thinking, resilience, and using technology. Jobs like Big Data specialists and AI engineers will grow fast.  

QS World Future Skills Index

India ranks second globally in preparing for AI and green skills, however, there are big gaps in workforce:

  • India scores 99.1 in identifying future skills but only 59.1 in actually having workers with those skills.
  • India ranks 26th in academic readiness and scores just 15.6 in innovation and sustainability.

India invests very low in research and development, less than 1% of GDP, which makes it harder to compete globally in areas like renewable energy and climate-friendly innovations.

What India Needs to Do?

Schools and colleges should teach skills like creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship . Courses should include real-world projects, hackathons, and startup incubators to help students innovate.

Colleges should offer courses on green technologies and encourage students to work on environmental projects. Special centers for sustainability research could help too.

Colleges must partner with businesses to design courses that match industry needs. Internships and mentorship programs can give students hands-on experience before they graduate.

Professors and teachers need training to keep up with new trends. Workshops, certifications, and global exchange programs can help them stay updated.

The government must build better digital infrastructure, especially in rural areas, so everyone has equal access to quality education.

The government should spend more capital on skill development, research, and innovation to ensure India stays competitive globally.

Must Read Articles: 

WEF'S FUTURE OF JOBS REPORT 2025

SHAPING A FUTURE-READY WORKFORCE

QS WORLD FUTURE SKILLS INDEX 2025

DARK STORES, RISE OF QUICK COMMERCE

INDIAN E-RETAIL MARKET OVERTAKE US

Source: 

THE HINDU

PRACTICE QUESTION

 Q.The gig economy is reshaping India’s workforce. Critically evaluate its potential and challenges. 150 words

Free access to e-paper and WhatsApp updates

Let's Get In Touch!