AI Enthusiasm vs. Preparedness: India's Workforce Dilemma

A study highlights India's workforce's enthusiasm for AI but shows a lack of confidence and organizational support. It points to a gap between employees' readiness and the skills valued by hiring managers, emphasizing the need for companies to support AI upskilling.

Employees across India are expressing a strong interest in integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into their work routines. However, a recent Udemy study reveals a stark contrast between this enthusiasm and the confidence and guidance provided by their employers.

The research, derived from a YouGov survey involving 1,000 Indian internet users, emphasizes a concerning gap. While employees are eager to embrace AI, they feel unsupported by their organizations, which fail to offer clear pathways for upskilling in AI technologies.

This disconnect is compounded by a discrepancy in how employability is perceived in India. Although a majority of employees regard a college degree as crucial for jobs, hiring managers are shifting focus towards demonstrable skills. Hugo Sarrazin of Udemy points out that organizations proactive in closing these skill gaps will gain a considerable advantage in the face of AI's impending impact.

(With inputs from agencies.)