Over half of employees in West Asia, Turkiye, and Africa see a strong link between digital proficiency and higher salaries, with a 41 per cent average income increase anticipated by those seeking to improve their skills. This widespread perception, highlighted in a recent survey, is driving a surge in self-directed digital literacy training across the region.
Egypt led the pack with 53 per cent of respondents believing improved digital skills would boost their earnings, while the UAE and Saudi Arabia followed with 44 per cent and 36 per cent respectively. Interestingly, across all countries, a sense of urgency appears evident, with the survey revealing a proactive approach towards upskilling.
A staggering 79 per cent of respondents across the region are actively engaged in self-driven digital literacy training, either through paid or free courses. This enthusiasm is particularly strong in the UAE (91 per cent), Turkiye (81 per cent), and South Africa (76 per cent), demonstrating a commitment to bridging the digital skills gap.
This trend towards self-learning underlines the urgent need for organisations to recognise the importance of digital proficiency at all levels. The survey underscores the crucial role of comprehensive IT and cybersecurity training programmes, catering to not only entry-level employees but also managers and leaders, to protect against growing cyber threats.