IBM to upskill 30 million people of all ages globally by 2030

IBM announced a ground-breaking commitment and global plan to deliver new skills to 30 million individuals of all ages by 2030 to prepare them for the jobs of the future.

IBM is announcing a clear roadmap to reach this goal, including more than 170 new academic and industry relationships. IBM’s existing programs and career-building platforms will be used to increase access to education and in-demand technical employment.

“Talent is everywhere; training opportunities are not,” said Arvind Krishna, IBM Chairman and CEO.

He added, “This is why we must take big and bold steps to expand access to digital skills and employment opportunities so that more people – regardless of their background – can take advantage of the digital economy. IBM commits to providing 30 million people with new skills by 2030. This will help democratize opportunity, fill the growing skills gap, and give new generations of workers the tools they need to build a better future for themselves and society.”

‘In today’s world, digital skills on emerging technologies are growing in demand and are key to driving innovation and economic growth for nations. The need to upskill and reskill the workforce is getting more critical than ever,’ says Hossam Seif El-Din, General Manager, IBM Middle East and Pakistan.

He also said, ‘In the Middle East, IBM is committed to building a digital talent pipeline to support the workforce of the future, and we will continue to invest in our education and training programs to further support the national vision of digital innovation across the region.’

A Program for Everyone

IBM’s education portfolio aims to be unique and successful, with a diverse offering and customizable approach, reflecting IBM’s conviction that a one-size-fits-all approach to education simply does not work. IBM’s initiatives include paid, on-site IBM internships and apprenticeships, as well as technical education for youths at brick-and-mortar public schools and universities. IBM mentorships are paired with learners in the company’s skills and education programs, and ambitious professionals can access a free, customizable online curriculum.

IBM’s ambition to educate 30 million individuals is based on a wide range of programs, including agreements with universities and major government bodies, such as job bureaus. Partnerships also include non-governmental organizations (NGOs), particularly those who work with marginalized adolescents, women, and military veterans. In general, IBM’s initiatives mobilize the private sector around the world to open and enhance opportunities for historically disadvantaged and underrepresented communities.

The challenge that firms confront in hiring skilled personnel around the world is a substantial impediment to economic growth. Closing the global skills gap may add US$11.5 trillion to global GDP by 2028, according to the World Economic Forum, but education and training systems would have to keep up with market demands. According to the World Economic Forum, the public and private sectors must collaborate on education and training to stay up with market demands, demographic shifts, and technological advancements.