Updrading skills must to help people adapt to future of work: OECD

Many countries need to urgently up-scale their adult learning systems so that people can adapt to the future world of work, according to a new report by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

New technologies, globalisation and population ageing are changing the quantity and quality of jobs as well as the skills they require, said the report titled 'Getting Skills Right: Future-Ready Adult Learning Systems.'

"Providing better skilling and re-skilling opportunities to workers affected by these changes is essential to make sure the future works for all," it said.

Only two in five adults participate in education and training in any given year. The most disadvantaged are least likely to train with low-skilled adults three times less likely to undertake training than the high-skilled (20 per cent vs 58 per cent).

Other groups falling behind include older people, low-wage and temporary workers, and the unemployed.

The most recent OECD analysis suggests that while only about one in seven jobs is at risk of full automation, another 30 per cent will likely be overhauled. However, people in jobs most at risk also do less training (40 per cent) than workers with jobs at low risk (59 per cent).

To tackle the issue, the report suggests ensuring adequate public financing and incentivizing employers to contribute through training levies and tax incentives. Besides, individuals should be encouraged through subsidies and paid training leave. (ANI)

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