Skillnet Ireland’s new report found that skills development is a significant priority for Irish employees in today’s working environment.
Amid a changing landscape, perhaps now more than ever, employees are prioritising opportunities not just to upskill, but also reskill in areas that could use additional focus.
Skillnet Ireland, a national workforce development agency, has published the findings of its ‘Lifelong Learning and Future of Work’ report, which explores various attitudes of employers and employees.
The commissioned survey collected data from 1,000 employed and self-employed Ireland-based adults aged 18 to 66, as a means of better understanding views around lifelong learning, participation in training and development activities, the motivations and barriers influencing upskilling behaviour, and future skills needs – particularly the growing role of AI.
Among the standouts was a finding that 96pc of those who contributed to the report believe upskilling and reskilling to be important to their professional success. More than 85pc have already undertaken upskilling in the past year, through various means, including accredited training programmes.
But is this desire for clear and modern workplace development being recognised by organisational leaders?
Shared goals
Skillnet’s report found that 70pc of employees taking part have an employer who has taken an interest in upskilling and reskilling, while two-thirds have an employer who provides support.
Arguably, this points to an environment in which employers and staff alike are highly aware of the benefits that come with learning new skills.
“It is encouraging to see so many individuals intending to upskill or reskill this year, particularly across areas such as digital and AI skills,” said Dave Flynn, director of business networks at Skillnet Ireland.
“We see the extent of commitment from both employees and employers across the economy to workforce development, with over 84,000 people participating in upskilling in 2025. For businesses, investing in skills is not only about supporting employees to succeed, it is also a key driver of innovation, productivity and competitiveness.”
Among the skills that most appealed to the survey’s participants were digital skills, technical skills, and skills in management and leadership. Unsurprisingly, more than half intended to focus on AI upskilling for future workforce needs.
However, career development wasn’t the only positive outcome linked to upskilling. Participants explained that they also value how upskilling or reskilling keeps the mind active, supports long-term mental health, boosts confidence and improves emotional wellbeing.
Overcoming barriers
A report published by educational platform Springboard+ in June of this year indicated that among the barriers to success for professionals looking to improve are costs, resources and social pressures.
Skillnet Ireland’s survey reported a similar landscape in which professionals are impeded by the cost of training (51pc), a lack of available time to learn (42pc), and a hectic work schedule (41pc) or home life (34pc).
However, it also highlighted the positive attitude many professionals have when they consider upskilling and its potential for long-term success. While 86pc have undertaken formal upskilling in the past 12 months – via degrees, diplomas and micro-credential programmes – 87pc have participated in informal upskilling such as workshops, online tutorials and self-directed learning.
More than half (59pc) said they felt they could benefit from additional upskilling to match the skills they will need to do their job in the future, and 92pc believe that the availability of online or blended learning can influence the willingness to upskill or reskill.
All in all, Skillnet’s report shows upwards momentum in the willingness to find methods of learning and upskilling that work for both the employee and the organisation they are committed to.
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