Digital Skills Playbook for the EU

This IBM report highlights the pressing talent gap in the digital sector across the European Union. Amidst rapid technological advancements, the EU faces a challenge: while there's an ambition to ensure 80% of its working-age population possesses basic digital skills by 2030, the current rate stands at just 54%. This shortfall is not just a hindrance to technological development but also poses economic challenges. The playbook emphasises the importance of continuous learning, skills-first hiring approaches, and the need for specialized programs to cater to underrepresented communities in technology. Furthermore, the document underscores the significance of collaboration between businesses, the EU, and national governments. Recommendations include promoting skills-based hiring, diversifying educational pathways, and ensuring training programs are aligned with real-world labour market needs.