Authors : Shaikh Dastagir; Maqsud Ahamed N.

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 7 - July

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/2jsd9m2a

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/2x4utxfw

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26jul673

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : The rapid advancement of digital technologies has transformed the global labour market, redefining the skills required for employment across industries. Emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Cloud Computing, Big Data Analytics, the Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain, and automation have created a demand for a digitally competent workforce capable of adapting to changing workplace environments. Digital skill development has therefore become a critical component of employability, economic growth, and sustainable development. Governments, educational institutions, industries, and international organizations are increasingly investing in digital education, reskilling, and upskilling initiatives to prepare individuals for future employment. In India, initiatives such as Digital India, Skill India, PMKVY, FutureSkills Prime, and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 have significantly strengthened digital capacity-building efforts. Despite these initiatives, challenges such as the digital divide, inadequate infrastructure, curriculum gaps, limited industry–academia collaboration, and unequal access to technology continue to hinder workforce readiness. This article reviews the concept of digital skill development, examines the importance of digital competencies for future employability, analyses current initiatives and challenges, and proposes strategic recommendations for building a digitally skilled workforce capable of thriving in the evolving digital economy.

Keywords : Digital Skills, Employability, Future of Work, Industry 4.0, Artificial Intelligence, Skill Development, Digital Economy, Higher Education.

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