Why it’s important to bridge the digital skills gap, starting with the younger generation

What is World Youth Skills Day?

World Youth Skills Day is an international annual event that takes place on 15^th July. Its purpose is to raise awareness about the importance of equipping young people with skills for employment, entrepreneurship, and enhanced livelihoods.

The day emphasises the need to empower young people with the necessary skills to address the challenges of an increasingly competitive and rapidly changing world, particularly in relation to technological advancements and digital transformation.

It encourages governments, educational institutions, businesses, civil society organisations, and individuals to collaborate and take actions to enhance youth skills development. It serves as a reminder that investing in youth skills not only contributes to their personal and professional growth but also plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable economic development, social inclusion, and poverty reduction.

What skills are experiencing a shortage in the UK?

The UK Government maintains a list of occupations which are deemed to be of short supply in the UK. The UK skills shortage list is regularly updated each year based on the latest developments in the job market. It currently contains over 30 shortage occupation types, including welders, graphic designers, musicians, artists, architects, vets, engineers, and scientists.

Here are some of the top IT and tech occupation shortages:

Mechanical Engineers
Electrical Engineers
Design & Development Engineers
Production and Process Engineers
IT Business Analysts, Architects and Systems Designers
Programmers and Software Developers
Web Designers and Web Developers
Cyber security professionals

How are we tackling the skills shortage when it comes to the younger generations?

In order to tackle the youth skills shortage, various initiatives and measures are being implemented by governments, educational institutions, businesses, and organisations. One company leading the way is World Skills UK, an independent charity which forms partnerships between employers, education, and governments, using international best practice to raise standards in apprenticeships and technical education.

World Skills UK is an organisation that champions skills development, excellence, and vocational education in the UK. It aims to raise the standards of skills and training, inspiring young people to pursue technical careers and showcasing the importance of skills in driving economic growth.

World Skills UK offers a range of resources to support skills development and career advancement. Some of their key resources include:

Skills Competitions

World Skills UK organises national skills competitions across various industries, allowing young people to showcase their talents and compete at regional, national, and international levels. These competitions provide a platform to nurture skills excellence and identify future industry leaders.

Skills Champions

The Skills Champions program selects and trains young people who have excelled in skills competitions to become ambassadors and role models. They inspire others by sharing their experiences, promoting the value of skills, and encouraging young people to consider technical careers.

Skills Development Hub

The Skills Development Hub offers a range of resources, including training materials, best practice guides, and interactive learning modules. These resources are designed to support educators, trainers, and learners in developing their skills and staying up to date with industry trends.

Careers Advice

World Skills UK provides careers advice and guidance to young people, helping them explore different career paths, understand the skills required in various industries, and make informed decisions about their futures. They offer information on apprenticeships, vocational qualifications, and pathways to success.

Research and Insights

World Skills UK conducts research and produces reports to inform policy, drive innovation, and shape the skills landscape. Their research provides valuable insights into skills development, employer needs, and the future of work.

Why is it important to upskill the youth in IT and tech?

Closing the skills gap

The digital landscape is rapidly evolving, and the demand for IT and tech skills continues to grow. By upskilling the youth, we can bridge the existing skills gap and ensure that there are enough qualified professionals to meet the industry's needs. This helps businesses thrive and contributes to overall economic growth.

Future-proofing Careers

Technology is deeply integrated into almost every industry, and its influence will only increase in the future. By preparing the younger generations with IT and tech skills, we empower them to future-proof their careers. These skills provide a solid foundation for adapting to technological advancements and seizing emerging opportunities.

Increasing Employability

IT and tech skills are highly sought after by employers across various sectors. Upskilling the younger generation in these areas significantly enhances their employability, opening them up to a wide range of job opportunities. It gives them a competitive edge in the job market and increases their chances of securing fulfilling and well-paying roles.

Fostering Innovation and Entrepreneurship

IT and tech skills enable the younger generation to innovate, create, and pursue entrepreneurial ventures. By nurturing their technical abilities, we encourage them to develop ground-breaking solutions, drive digital transformation, and contribute to technological advancements. This entrepreneurial spirit benefits not only individuals but also the overall economy.

Addressing Social and Economic Inequalities

Access to IT and tech skills can help bridge the digital divide and reduce inequalities. By providing equal opportunities for young people to develop these skills, regardless of their background, we create a more inclusive society. It allows individuals from all walks of life to participate in the digital economy and reap its benefits.

Enabling Digital Citizenship

In today's digital world, digital literacy and competence are crucial for active participation in society. By upskilling the youth in IT and tech, we empower them to navigate the digital landscape responsibly, understand emerging technologies, and make informed decisions about privacy, security, and ethical considerations.

Upskilling the youth in IT and tech is not just about technical proficiency; it is about empowering them to thrive in the digital era, shape the future, and contribute to the advancement of society.