The Digital Skills Nexus Report

October 2024

The Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) has undertaken a comprehensive exploration of youth perspectives on digital skills across 13 Member States, targeting individuals aged 18-25. The report follows a rigorous methodology, beginning with global research to identify critical digital skills required for the youth, the development of a robust digital skills framework, and surveys conducted across multiple countries. Insights were further enriched by roundtable discussions held in Riyadh, Cape Town, and Geneva, resulting in the formulation of the Digital Skills Nexus.

Key findings from the survey indicate that while 65% of youth feel confident in their essential digital skills, only 27% are proficient in applying career-related digital skills, revealing a significant gap in job readiness. Furthermore, awareness of upskilling opportunities remains limited, with only 20% of respondents aware of country-sponsored programs and just 7% familiar with employer-sponsored initiatives.

The roundtables underscored the importance of coordinated efforts at academic, organizational, and national levels. Key recommendations include the development of research-driven curricula, mentorship and training programs, and strong public-private partnerships to offer targeted, industry-aligned digital skills training. Additionally, national-level initiatives should focus on infrastructural improvements, free digital skills courses, and centralized governance to support youth employability and digital transformation strategies across member states.