{
  "id": 3256364,
  "title": "Upskilling critical to success for 90pc of professionals, finds report",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/25/upskilling-critical-to-success-for-90pc-of-professionals-finds-report",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-08-25T11:56:17.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Silicon Republic",
    "slug": "silicon-republic",
    "url": "https://www.siliconrepublic.com/careers/upskilling-critical-success-90pc-professionals-report-survey-skillnet"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "A recent report by Skillnet Ireland highlights the significance of upskilling for the success of the 90% of professionals surveyed in Ireland. As the landscape of work evolves, particularly with the rise of AI, employees are increasingly prioritizing both upskilling and reskilling to remain competitive. Skillnet Ireland, a national workforce development agency, conducted a comprehensive survey of 1,000 employed and self-employed adults aged 18 to 66, revealing that more than 85% of respondents had already engaged in upskilling activities within the past year through various means, including accredited training programs.\n\nHowever, the report questions whether this attitude towards personal development is being mirrored by organizational leaders. While 70% of employees indicated that their employers are interested in upskilling and reskilling initiatives, and two-thirds receive support, the overall commitment remains crucial. The survey found that 96% of respondents agreed that learning new skills is integral to career development, underscoring a strong alignment between personal and professional growth.\n\nWhen asked about their preferences, the most sought-after skills among participants were digital skills, technical competencies, and management and leadership abilities. Notably, AI upskilling emerged as a top priority for over half the participants, reflecting the growing importance of artificial intelligence in the future workforce. While more than half of the participants focused on AI, the survey also revealed that upskilling contributes to mental well-being, enhances confidence, and improves emotional health.\n\nDespite these benefits, professionals face several obstacles, including financial constraints (51%), lack of time (42%), and demanding schedules (41%). However, the survey also identified that online or blended learning programs could significantly boost willingness to upskill or reskill, with 92% of respondents believing this flexibility is essential. The overall trend in Skillnet Ireland's report indicates a growing willingness among both employees and employers to embrace new learning methods that benefit all parties involved.\n\nDave Flynn, director of Business Networks at Skillnet Ireland, emphasized the positive outlook, stating, \"It is encouraging to see so many individuals intending to upskill or reskill this year, particularly across areas such as digital and AI skills.\" He highlighted that investing in workforce development is vital for both employee success and organizational innovation.",
  "summary": "Skillnet Ireland’s report found that skills development is a significant priority for Irish employees in today’s working environment. Read more: Upskilling critical to success for 90pc of professionals, finds report",
  "key_points": [
    "90% of Irish professionals prioritize upskilling for success",
    "AI skills top priority for over half of participants",
    "Financial constraints, time, and demanding schedules hinder upskilling"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}