Foreword Technology has long been a catalyst for productivity, innovation and economic growth. Yet its potential can only be realized through people and their ability to adapt, learn and apply new capabilities in a world where technology evolves faster than systems can respond. As artificial intelligence (AI) and data-driven systems continue to reshape global value chains and transform industries and economies, digital fluency and human adaptability have become macroeconomic imperatives. AI is transforming not only what skills are in demand, but also how they are applied across work and industries to shape the new economy. According to the Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 , advancements in technology, particularly AI and information processing and robotics and automation, are among the most transformative forces shaping the world of work. Technology-related roles are expected to be the fastest-growing roles by 2030, with AI and big data topping the list of fastest-growing skills. This transformation requires new forms of interdisciplinary competencies that enable humans to oversee and collaborate with AI systems. For economies seeking to accelerate growth and innovation, closing the digital skills gap is as critical as investing in infrastructure or capital. This paper is a collaboration between the World Economic Forum and Cognizant and is the second instalment in the New Economy Skills series. It explores the evolving supply and demand of AI, data and digital skills that are set to underpin future economic growth, innovation and resilience. The research examines where skills gaps are emerging, the investments needed to fill them, and specific technology capabilities employers are demanding. It also proposes a call to action for education, workforce and credentialing systems to evolve, ensuring digital skills are learned, effectively applied and recognized through more portable, practical and trusted assessments. The report underscores the simultaneous challenge posed by rapid technological progress and a labour market facing difficulties in aligning the supply of essential skills with existing demand. Indeed, AI is already revolutionizing not just the skill sets required to power the new economy, but also how existing digital skills are applied. Amidst this, demand for skills is rocketing, as evidenced by the surge in wages for AI and machine learning roles. Despite incentivizing skill development and soaring demand for digital learning, however, few business leaders believe education systems are effectively preparing workers appropriately, highlighting an urgent need for us all to take decisive action across the entire skills development life cycle. We hope this instalment in the New Economy Skills series will support public- and private- sector leaders as they navigate technology-driven transformation and invest not only in technology itself, but in the people who enable it, ensuring an inclusive and human-centred digital economy.Saadia Zahidi Managing Director World Economic ForumRavi Kumar Chief Executive Officer Cognizant New Economy Skills: Building AI, Data and Digital Capabilities for GrowthDecember 2025 New Economy Skills: Building AI, Data and Digital Capabilities for Growth 3

New Economy Skills 2025