Two-in-three Job Seekers and Career Changers in India reported familiarity with STEM jobs, with a majority of Indian respondents overall saying they’re interested in working in STEM
The world is changing at a rapid pace, and the workforce must adapt. A recent study conducted by IBM and Morning Consult revealed that job seekers, students, and career changers worldwide aspire to pursue careers related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) across various industries. The study surveyed more than 14,000 people across 13 countries, including India, and found that while many respondents were interested in STEM, they lacked knowledge about the career options available.
The study also found that digital credentials and online training are emerging as popular pathways to job opportunities. India respondents reported the highest level of familiarity with STEM jobs compared to other countries surveyed. Additionally, all surveyed individuals in India agreed that career opportunities in STEM would increase over the next ten years. However, cost was a concern for most when considering earning digital credentials.
45 new collaborations around the world, including 11 in India
To combat these misconceptions and bring STEM education closer to historically underrepresented communities, IBM announced 45 new educational partners worldwide, including 11 in India, as part of the IBM SkillsBuild program. The collaboration with social service, economic development, and vocational organizations, government agencies, and universities will provide free online learning and clear pathways to employment. Many of these organizations focus on specific communities that are underrepresented in technology and will help skill women, low-income individuals, ethnic minorities, and refugees.
Awareness of options around STEM careers is low
The study showed that many job seekers, career changers, and students worldwide were interested in STEM jobs but lacked knowledge about them. Over 60% of respondents worldwide were planning to make a job change in the next 12 months, with 61% of them not feeling qualified to work in a STEM job. The study found that learners were concerned about the cost of digital credentials and did not know enough about them. They were also unsure about where to start with professional or technical skill development.
STEM jobs across industries would increase
Despite these concerns, respondents worldwide were optimistic about the future of STEM jobs, and 66% of respondents believed that STEM jobs across industries would increase over the next decade. Respondents who earned digital credentials agreed that they helped achieve their career goals. A majority of respondents globally agreed that digital credentials were an excellent way to supplement traditional education and increase career opportunities.
Conclusion
The IBM study emphasizes the need to create awareness about the breadth of science and technology roles across industries, particularly to underrepresented communities. The findings suggest that digital credentials and online training are crucial in today’s rapidly advancing workplace. IBM SkillsBuild aims to equip learners with the necessary skills to succeed in STEM careers, contributing to building a future-ready workforce worldwide.
(India CSR)
