New Economy Skills 2025

1 AI, data, and digital skills are now fundamental for thriving in the modern workforce. They help enable individuals to confidently navigate, design, manage and interact responsibly with digital technologies, AI systems, communication tools and interconnected networks. Core competencies in this area include proficiency in AI and big data analytics, which equip individuals to analyse and get insights from complex data sets to drive informed decision-making. Networks and cybersecurity skills ensure safe and effective management of digital infrastructure, while technological literacy empowers people to adapt to rapid technological change (Figure 1). Expertise in digital design and user experience is becoming increasingly important, allowing professionals to create intuitive and accessible digital solutions. Programming skills, ranging from basic coding to advanced software development, underpin the ability to build, maintain and enhance digital systems and applications. All these skills are essential not only for technology-focused roles, but across all sectors as digital transformation accelerates. This report underscores the significance of specialist AI, data and digital skills to navigate increasingly complex technological systems. However, it also emphasizes the need for foundational technology literacy across all roles to achieve success in today’s labour market. In a world of constant technological change, the ability to communicate clearly, adapt quickly and continually acquire digital skills is essential. Mastery of these skills helps individuals remain relevant and competitive, and empowers them to respond proactively to emerging technologies and new ways of working.1.1 What are AI, data and digital skills?The AI, data and digital skills landscape Demand for AI, data and digital skills is soaring, but patchy education, uneven access and variable teacher readiness are leaving global gaps in workforce preparedness unresolved. AI, data and digital skills FIGURE 1 Technology ethics ProgrammingTechnological literacyNetworks and cybersecurity Design and user experienceAI and big data AI, data and digital skillsAI, data and digital skills are a range of abilities to navigate, design, manage and critically and responsibly engage with digital technologies, AI systems, communication applications and networks. New Economy Skills: Building AI, Data and Digital Capabilities for Growth 7