Are 60% of Gen Z and fresh graduates in India eager to upskill with AI and data skills?
Synopsis
In a rapidly evolving job market, a recent report highlights that a staggering 60% of Gen Z and fresh graduates in India are prioritizing upskilling, particularly in AI and data skills. This trend not only showcases their commitment to personal growth but also signals a shift in workforce expectations and employer strategies.
Key Takeaways
61% of Gen Z is focused on upskilling.
63% of fresh graduates prioritize learning.
Over half of Gen Z and freshers are learning AI and data skills .
96% of white-collar workers engaged in upskilling.
Cost, time constraints, and employer support are key barriers.
New Delhi, Nov 5 (NationPress) Generation Z and recent graduates are at the forefront of the upskilling movement in India, with a significant number actively pursuing artificial intelligence and data skills, according to a report released on Wednesday.
The analysis from Deel, a global payroll and compliance platform, draws from a survey of 5,058 employees spanning Gen Z (28 years or younger), millennials (29-44 years), and Gen X (45-60 years).
The findings reveal that an impressive 96 percent of India’s white-collar workforce has engaged in upskilling over the past year; however, the priorities and motivations for learning vary considerably across generational lines.
Leading the charge are Gen Z and fresh graduates, with 61 percent and 63 percent respectively, indicating that access to upskilling opportunities is a crucial factor for retention in their current roles.
Moreover, the younger workforce is embracing the AI trend, as over half of Gen Z (54 percent) and fresh graduates (57 percent) are currently acquiring AI and data skills.
In contrast, only 40 percent of millennials are focused on learning new skills. Gen X (38 percent) remains committed to traditional domain expertise, prioritizing core professional and functional skills over emerging technologies.
Mark Samlal, General Manager APAC at Deel, stated, “India’s workforce is entering a new era where motivation for learning is high, but the barriers differ for each generation.”
He added, “Employers can bridge the skills gap and enhance retention across generations by offering flexible and accessible learning programs tailored to various life stages and work realities.”
Notably, 61 percent of Gen Z indicated that upskilling significantly influences their decision to remain with an employer. Similarly, 63 percent of fresh graduates echoed this sentiment, showcasing a strong correlation between access to learning opportunities and early-career retention.
Additionally, while two-thirds of Gen Z (66 percent) are confident that their skills will remain relevant over the next five years, less than half of millennials (48 percent) and just over one-third of Gen X (36 percent) share this confidence.
However, Gen Z has cited cost (31 percent) as a barrier to upskilling. Meanwhile, millennials face time constraints (35 percent), and Gen X struggles with limited employer support (29 percent), as noted in the report.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the evolving landscape of India's workforce. The enthusiasm exhibited by Gen Z and fresh graduates for upskilling in AI and data skills not only reflects their ambition but also indicates a pressing need for employers to create a supportive environment that fosters continuous learning and retention. This report serves as a clarion call for businesses to align their strategies with the aspirations of the new generation.
NationPress
4 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of Gen Z is focused on upskilling?
61% of Gen Z is actively engaged in upskilling.
How many fresh graduates are learning AI and data skills?
57% of fresh graduates are currently learning AI and data skills.
What barriers do different generations face in upskilling?
Gen Z cites cost as a barrier, millennials face time constraints, and Gen X struggles with limited employer support.
Why is upskilling important for retention?
Access to upskilling opportunities significantly influences employees' decisions to stay with their employers.
What is the overall trend in workforce upskilling in India?
96% of white-collar professionals in India engaged in upskilling over the past year.
