A Skill Readiness Index developed by IMF managing director Kristalina Georgieva ranks Ireland ahead of Finland and Denmark as the countries best positioned to provide skills for the rapidly changing work environment. Professional, managerial and technical roles demand the most new skills, particularly IT skills, which account for more than half the demand. Marketing roles increasingly demand expertise in social media, the IMF noted, while digital health skills are increasingly required in healthcare. There are countries with high demand for new skills, but relatively low supply, such as Sweden, Brazil and Mexico. “Today’s students need cognitive, creative and technical skills that complement AI and help them use it, rather than compete with it.”

Source: Irish Independent January 15, 2026 13:03 UTC