On 8 January, the World Economic Forum (WEF) released its “Future of Jobs Report 2025,” highlighting major shifts expected in the job market by 2030. The report forecasts the creation of 170 million new jobs, while 92 million jobs will be displaced, resulting in a net gain of 78 million jobs. This disruption is anticipated to impact 22% of jobs worldwide.
Bridging the Skill Gap: Reskilling for the Future Workforce
The skill gap is a major challenge identified in the report, with nearly 40% of the skills needed for jobs expected to change. Sixty-three percent of employers say that the lack of the right skillset is the primary obstacle to business transformation. By 2030, 59% of the global workforce will require reskilling or upskilling, putting 120 million workers at risk of redundancy due to this gap.
The report emphasizes the increasing demand for technological skills in areas such as AI, big data, and cybersecurity. At the same time, human skills like creativity, resilience, and flexibility will continue to be crucial. Workers who combine both types of skills will be highly sought after.
Adapting to Change: The Future of Work in the Age of AI and Demographic Shifts
Demographic changes are expected to drive the most growth in frontline roles within care and education. Professions like nursing and secondary school teaching are projected to see significant expansion. In contrast, jobs in sectors such as cashiering, administrative assistance, and graphic design are likely to decline due to advancements in AI.
AI and automation are transforming business models, prompting many employers to reduce their workforce, while 77% are prioritizing employee upskilling. The report stresses the urgency for collective action from governments, businesses, and educational sectors to close skill gaps and create accessible pathways into fast-growing industries. These challenges will be addressed at the WEF’s 2025 Annual Meeting, which will focus on the theme “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age.”
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