With 81% of Professionals Planning to Reskill, AI and Tech-Driven Learning Become Crucial Career Lifelines
A Surge in Tech Learning Fueled by AI
India’s workforce is undergoing a transformation. As artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and digital disruption reshape industries, professionals are responding with an unprecedented push toward upskilling.
- According to the Great Learning Upskilling Trends Report 2025–2026, 81% of Indian professionals intend to learn new tech skills like AI, machine learning (ML), and cybersecurity within the year.
- Optimism is high: 78% feel positive about AI and are actively learning to stay relevant.
This marks a shift where upskilling is no longer optional, but essential to career survival and growth.
The Rising Value of Continuous Learning
The report surveyed over 1,000 professionals across India and found a growing acknowledgment of the need for lifelong learning:
- 85% now see upskilling as critical to future-proofing careers, up from 79% last year.
- Demand is highest for AI and ML, followed by software development and cybersecurity—fields rapidly evolving and expanding.
Professionals are choosing short, affordable certificate programs over traditional degrees, seeking immediate, applicable skills that meet modern workplace demands.
“In 2025, adaptability and continuous learning will be crucial for both organisational success and individual career resilience.” — Bernard Marr, global workplace trends analyst
Upskilling Across Experience Levels
The urge to learn spans all career stages, from fresh graduates to seasoned professionals:
- 92% of senior professionals (17+ years of experience) believe in continuous learning.
- 83% of freshers plan to upskill—an encouraging rise over last year.
This widespread demand covers roles in data science, AI, ML, and cybersecurity, showing how digital skills are now core competencies across industries.
Education and Perception: A Split Outlook
Interestingly, attitudes toward AI’s impact vary based on educational background:
- MBA graduates (89%) and B.Com graduates (84%) are more optimistic.
- B.E./B.Tech graduates (64%) are more cautious—likely reflecting reduced tech-sector hiring and increasing automation.
Despite this, job confidence is recovering:
- 73% feel secure in their current roles, an 11-point increase from last year.
- Confidence is highest among employees in large companies and tier-I cities, and lower in smaller firms and tier-II locations.
Barriers to Upskilling: Time, Cost, and Workload
Despite strong motivation, challenges persist:
- 37% cite heavy workload as the main barrier.
- Cost concerns and family obligations, particularly for women and younger professionals, also stand in the way.
Yet, the willingness to invest in learning remains strong, with 81% planning to spend on new tech skills in 2025–26. The main drivers?
- Higher earning potential
- Promotions
- Job market adaptability
Micro-Credentials Trump Traditional Degrees
Employers are now prioritizing micro-credentials and recent certifications over traditional degrees.
- Candidates with in-demand skills are more employable.
- Those who continuously learn and adapt are better positioned to seize emerging opportunities in the AI-driven job market.
Upskilling is evolving from being a career advantage to a career necessity.
Future Outlook: Adaptability Will Define Success
India’s workforce is showing remarkable resilience and adaptability in the face of rapid change.
- AI, ML, and cybersecurity aren’t just trending—they’re essential for future success.
- As job roles transform and new professions emerge, upskilling becomes the ultimate safeguard for relevance and prosperity.
