Digital skills gap costing global economy trillions, report finds

A significant gap in digital skills continues to impede global economic growth, with 38 percent of the world's population lacking basic digital proficiency, according to new research. The study, produced by GSMA Intelligence in collaboration with Huawei, suggests that closing this gap could unlock trillions of dollars in additional global GDP.

Published during UNESCO's Digital Education Week in Paris, the findings highlight disparities in digital literacy, particularly affecting developing markets and underserved communities. The lack of fundamental digital skills limits individuals' employment opportunities and hinders businesses' ability to innovate and scale.

The report identifies several contributing factors to this skills deficit, including insufficient access to quality education, economic barriers, and societal challenges. It calls for concerted efforts from governments, the private sector, and educational bodies to implement programs that enhance digital capabilities and foster greater inclusion in the digital economy.

Huawei has stated its commitment to supporting digital inclusion and skills development worldwide. The company aims to contribute to training and empowering millions of individuals to improve their digital competencies in the coming years, recognizing the critical role these skills play in economic and social progress.