Education system should better prepare pupils with digital skills

Three-quarters (74%) of Gen Z consider learning new digital skills essential to increasing future career options or plan to acquire them, according to research from Dell Technologies.

The research captures the voice of Gen Z adults (18–26 years) across 15 countries, including the UK, regarding social and economic recovery strategies and areas that the government should invest in.
 
Respondents feel their education could have better prepared them with digital skills. Over half (52%) of UK respondents said that school only taught them very basic computing skills and one-in-ten (10%) did not receive any technology or digital skills education. Four-in-ten (40%) claim school (under 16) didn't prepare them with the technology skills needed for their planned career.
 
To help bridge the digital skills gap, a third (35%) of respondents suggested making technology courses at all education levels more interesting and widely available. Over a quarter (29%) believe mandatory technology courses up to 16 years will encourage young people into technology-driven careers.
 
Rawcliffe added: "It's clear that Gen Z sees technology as pivotal for their future prosperity. However, there is still a digital poverty gap in parts of our society, as well as a digital skills gap, so more can be done to set them up for success through improvements in the quality and access to digital learning for all. It will require constant collaboration between businesses and schools to keep pace as technology evolves and bridge this digital skills gap. What's up for grabs is a flourishing society and economy which includes everyone. And we're excited to continue working with our partners in the public and private sector to make this a reality."
 
Gen Z sees access to devices and connectivity for disadvantaged groups (33%) and connectivity in rural areas (22%) as the investment areas government should prioritize to help close the digital divide.