Are 60% of Gen Z and Fresh Graduates in India Eager to Upskill in AI and Data?
Synopsis
A recent study reveals that a significant portion of India's Generation Z and fresh graduates are eager to upskill, particularly in AI and data skills. As employers adapt to these trends, the landscape of the workforce is changing, highlighting the importance of accessible learning opportunities.
Key Takeaways
61% of Gen Z are focused on upskilling.
54% of Gen Z are learning AI skills.
96% of white-collar workers engaged in upskilling last year.
Financial constraints hinder Gen Z's ability to upskill.
Employers need to offer flexible learning programs.
New Delhi, Nov 5 (NationPress) Generation Z and recent graduates are at the forefront of India’s skilling revolution, as a significant number are pursuing education in artificial intelligence and data skills, according to a report released on Wednesday.
This study conducted by Deel, a global payroll and compliance platform, surveyed 5,058 employees from different generations: Gen Z (aged 28 and under), millennials (aged 29-44), and Gen X (aged 45-60).
The findings reveal that an impressive 96 percent of India’s white-collar workforce has engaged in upskilling over the past year; however, their learning motivations and priorities vary greatly between generations.
Gen Z and fresh graduates are spearheading the upskilling trend, with 61 percent and 63 percent respectively, viewing access to upskilling as a crucial factor for staying with their employers.
The younger generation is also embracing the AI trend, with more than half of Gen Z (54 percent) and fresh graduates (57 percent) actively acquiring AI and data skills.
In contrast, millennials are trailing behind, with only 40 percent engaging in new skill acquisition, while Gen X (38 percent) tends to focus on traditional domain knowledge, emphasizing core professional and functional skills over emerging technologies.
“India’s workforce is transitioning into a new phase where the desire for learning is robust, yet the challenges differ by generation,” stated Mark Samlal, General Manager APAC at Deel.
“Employers can help bridge the skills gap and enhance retention by offering flexible and accessible learning programs tailored to various life stages and workplace realities,” Samlal continued.
Gen Z (61 percent) showed the strongest correlation between upskilling and the decision to stay with an employer, a sentiment echoed by fresh graduates (63 percent), highlighting the link between learning access and retention in early careers.
However, Gen Z mentioned that financial constraints (31 percent) are a barrier to upskilling, while millennials cite time limitations (35 percent), and Gen X points to a lack of employer support (29 percent), as per the report.
Point of View
It is clear that India's workforce is evolving with a strong emphasis on continuous learning. The findings highlight the urgency for employers to adapt their strategies to meet the diverse needs of different generations, ensuring that they remain competitive in a rapidly changing environment.
NationPress
21 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of Gen Z is upskilling?
61 percent of Gen Z are actively engaged in upskilling.
Which skills are fresh graduates focusing on?
Fresh graduates are primarily focusing on artificial intelligence and data skills.
What challenges do millennials face in upskilling?
Millennials often struggle with time constraints, with 35 percent citing this as a barrier.
How does upskilling affect employee retention?
Access to upskilling opportunities is significantly linked to employee retention, especially among younger generations.
What is the main barrier for Gen Z in upskilling?
Financial constraints are the main barrier for 31 percent of Gen Z looking to upskill.
