The Indian job market is at the cusp of transformation, with significant changes looming. The World Economic Forum, in its latest Future of Jobs report, reveals that the Indian job market will witness a 22 per cent churn over the next five years, with emerging roles primarily centred around AI, machine learning, and data analytics.
This paradigm shift presents both opportunities and challenges.
Ankit Shyamsukha, the CEO of ICA Edu Skills and the Founder of IDCM, has outlined several challenges facing the Indian job market.
1. Skill mismatch:
One of the most significant challenges in the Indian job market is the glaring skill mismatch. Traditional educational institutions often cannot keep pace with the rapidly evolving demands of the job market, leading to a gap between the skills job seekers possess and what employers require. This mismatch results in unemployment for many and unfilled vacancies for employers.
2. Unequal access to opportunities:
In India, access to quality education and job opportunities is still unequal. The urban-rural divide, socio-economic disparities, and gender-related challenges persist, limiting the opportunities available to a vast population.
3. Lack of industry-relevant curriculum:
SOLVING CHALLENGES THROUGH SKILL TRAINING
1. Bridging the skill mismatch:
Skill training programmes, especially in AI, machine learning, and data analytics, can bridge the gap between what job seekers know and what employers need. These programs can provide hands-on training, ensuring graduates are job-ready from day one. Public-private partnerships can play a crucial role in scaling up these initiatives.
2. Adapting to technological disruption:
Skill training allows individuals to adapt to technological disruptions in their respective industries. It enables them to upskill or reskill, making it easier for those in outdated roles to transition into new, in-demand positions. Employers and employees should encourage and facilitate continuous learning and development.
3. Promoting inclusivity:
Skill training should be designed with inclusivity in mind. Efforts must be made to reach marginalised communities, women, and those in rural areas. Mobile-based learning, community centres, and awareness campaigns can help ensure that skill training opportunities are accessible to a broader section of the population.
4. Promoting entrepreneurship and innovation:
Skill training programmes can encourage entrepreneurship and innovation by equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to start their businesses or contribute to the growth of existing businesses.
Fostering an entrepreneurial mindset and training in areas like business development, marketing, and financial management can help address the challenge of job market constraints while driving economic growth and job creation.
By nurturing a culture of innovation, skill training can empower individuals to become job creators rather than just job seekers, contributing to a more dynamic and resilient economy.
Courtesy : IndiaToday