The annual Global Knowledge IT skills and Salary report by Skillsoft has found that 73% of IT decision makers across APAC are facing critical skills gaps in their departments – a 145 % increase since 2016.
In response to the shortage, IT professionals in APAC are now being paid on average $6,435 USD or 10.2 % more compared to one year ago – the biggest jump of any region with the higher-paying positions in cloud, risk management, security, and IT project management.
Additionally, 52 % of respondents worldwide received a raise in the past year, attributing the increase to a variety of factors including job performance, developing new skills, and obtaining industry certifications.
“Today’s digital-first economy has presented significant opportunities for organisations. However, it has also created a dire need for new skills in cloud computing, cybersecurity, AI, DevOps, and many other critical tech areas,” said Michael Yoo, General Manager, Technology & Developer, Skillsoft.
“Gaps in skills don’t just disappear, they only grow wider if not properly addressed. Organisations must place a bigger emphasis on investing in employee training, empowering professionals to earn new certifications, and filling vacant roles with diverse candidates.”
As digital transformation accelerates, 38 % of IT decision makers cited the rate of technology change outpacing their existing skills development programs as the primary driver of the skills gap, followed by difficulty in attracting qualified candidates lack of investment in training resources
Organisations are increasingly recognising the role that professional development plays in combatting skills gaps and raising employee morale and retention, with 56% of IT decision makers worldwide saying they have a plan in place to train existing team members. And, given that 80 % of IT professionals report a myriad of benefits after achieving new skills and certifications – including improved quality of work, higher levels of engagement, and faster job performance.
