Rules of the skilling game: Top universities and work integrated learning hold the key

Upskilling is a word on everyone’s lips nowadays, and it is often accompanied by lifelong learning as that is the way to adapt to the changing times. Companies, too, have to take steps to make sure their workforce is ready to take on today’s challenges. And they are doing it through work integrated learning programmes.

A report by People Matters and UNext — Skillscape 2024: Navigating India’s Talent Horizon — says what changes organisations have to embrace to get their workforce skill-ready. A major step is through strategic partnerships with tier-1 universities.

The report says this can be a game changer for organisations. The prestige associated with top-tier universities enhances the perceived value of training programmes. It attracts top talent to the organisation, too, and fosters a culture of continuous learning. In fact, 71% of the organisations prioritise certifications from tier-I institutions.

Source: People Matters and UNext

This is especially true of technology skills, more than professional skills, which could be functional in nature, or leadership skills.

Work integrated learning programmes

Work integrated learning programmes (WLIPs) are an important component of skilling and learning at work, says the report. In fact, 81% of the companies covered in the report say they are already experimenting with WILPs in some shape and form. These programmes are critical as they blend formal learning with more real-world work applications, improving both skills and knowledge.

Another gap the report highlights is that publicly available courses sometimes do not ensure the candidates are job-ready, so programmes need to be customised for outcomes. This also highlights another critical factor: Instead of depending on internal knowledge for all emerging areas, it is important to blend external expertise through SMEs who can bring in specialised, emerging skills.

Emerging skills

Given these shifts, one of critical areas being looked at as an emerging competency for leaders is around change leadership and organisational leadership. At the mid-career level, emotional intelligence is a key competency that is valued.

Skills in artificial intelligence (AI) and such areas will keep evolving as the technology paradigm keeps shifting.

Table: Skills with high value in IT/ITES and manufacturing

Source: People Matters and UNext
Organisations must be prepared for a talent shuffle as new roles will keep emerging with the evolution of technology. Identifying these skill sets and ensuring the workforce stays agile and adaptive is an important task.