India leads global shift away from college degree requirements: WEF
NEW DELHI, INDIA — Indian employers are increasingly adopting skills-based hiring, setting aside traditional degree requirements, according to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025.
About 30% of businesses in India are now prioritizing skills over academic credentials, a trend that outpaces the global average of 19%.
Tech advancements and diversity
The report highlights that digital access, geopolitical tensions, and climate mitigation are major forces shaping India’s job market, with projections extending to 2030.
Indian companies are investing in technologies such as AI, robotics, autonomous systems, and new energy solutions. These sectors drive the need for technological innovation and broaden the scope for diverse hiring practices.
Approximately 35% of Indian firms anticipate transformations driven by advancements in semiconductors and computing technologies.
Furthermore, 21% expect quantum and encryption technologies to have a profound impact. This technological push is creating a high demand for specialists in fields like big data, AI, machine learning, and security management.
Global perspective and challenges
The WEF’s findings also revealed that digitalization, climate action, and economic pressures are expected to influence labor market changes between 2025 and 2030.
Similar to India, Europe faces challenges related to talent shortages and skill gaps, with 54% of employers expecting a decline in available talent, a concern that significantly surpasses the global average.
In conclusion, as Indian companies lead the way with a 67% focus on tapping into diverse talent pools—compared to 47% globally—the country sets a benchmark for integrating technological advancements with inclusive employment strategies. These efforts are essential for addressing the intricate challenges and opportunities of the future job market.
