AI, leadership, cybersecurity skills soar in global demand

The demand for skills in artificial intelligence (AI), leadership, and cybersecurity has seen a marked increase according to the latest report from Udemy's Q4 2024 Learning Index.

Based on learning trends from a vast network of global users, Udemy's report indicates a significant shift towards AI, leadership, and cybersecurity training as organisations focus on upskilling to keep pace with technological changes. The study noted a 58% increase in enrolment for AI courses, a 42% rise in leadership training, and a 47% increase in cybersecurity courses globally.

Within the finance sector, there was a notable 75% quarter-over-quarter boost in AI upskilling, highlighting a shift towards automation and data-driven decisions. Mischa Fisher, Economist at Udemy, commented, "AI proficiency is no longer a niche skill – it's becoming as essential as computer skills were 30 years ago. Companies are ramping up AI training because they can't afford to wait — automation is reshaping industries, labour shortages are increasing, and businesses need AI-driven efficiencies to stay competitive. Those that don't prioritise upskilling now risk falling behind in an economy where AI integration is quickly becoming the norm."

Udemy, a major platform for online learning, provides access to over 210,000 courses across various disciplines, including technology, business, personal development, and creative skills. The platform aims to assist professionals and enterprises in adapting to the changing job market.

In technology-related courses, learners have options to master programming languages such as Python, explore cloud computing, or gain expertise in AI and cybersecurity. For business professionals, there are courses to improve leadership, project management, and financial analysis skills. Personal development areas, such as communication, productivity, and career growth, are also covered. Additionally, Udemy offers health and wellness courses, including fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being.

The platform also supports customised learning solutions for enterprises via Udemy Business, targeting areas with high demand like AI, cybersecurity, and leadership. Notable customers include Ericsson, Hewlett Packard, Vimeo, Cisco, and Samsung.

Information from Udemy Business suggests a global focus on AI training across sectors, from finance halls to manufacturing floors. The U.S., India, and Germany are leading with notable adoption rates. The finance industry's consumption of AI courses rose 75% in Q4 2024, with manufacturing seeing a 50% increase.

Demand goes beyond technical skills. There has been an increase in the consumption of leadership and management courses, particularly in people management, communication, and emotional intelligence, rising 42% globally.

In Australia, the trend aligns with global findings with AI-related enrolments up by 61% and leadership-focused courses rising by 39%. There's a distinct interest in skills like React JS and Python, showing moderate growth in these technologies.

Demand for cybersecurity and data analytics is expanding too. Cybersecurity enrolments globally are up 47%, reflecting the need to tackle evolving cyber threats with education in areas such as ethical hacking and information security. Concurrently, Australia's data analytics training demand spiked by a significant 53%.