#Digital Skills #Brussels #Belgium #EIT Digital #(d)Academy

Welcome to the Digital Skills Revolution: Launch of (d)Academy

EIT Digital recently unveiled the (d)Academy, an advanced platform that aims to tackle the critical shortage of digital skills in Europe. With over 75% of companies in the EU struggling to find qualified digital professionals, the initiative responds directly to the urgent need for skilled labor in sectors ranging from cybersecurity to data analytics.

The Challenge of Digital Skills Shortage

The gap in digital competencies is alarming. Statistics reveal that only 56% of Europeans aged 16 to 74 have basic digital skills. This inadequacy poses significant challenges not only for individuals seeking employment but also for businesses striving to harness digital transformation. The (d)Academy, developed in collaboration with talent-matching leader Abodoo, is set to redefine the recruitment landscape by prioritizing skills over traditional resume-based vetting.

A Revolutionary Approach to Job Matching

At the core of the (d)Academy’s philosophy is a commitment to lifelong learning and personal growth. The platform leverages advanced AI algorithms to analyze both candidates' resumes and the course content offered. This data-driven approach facilitates a skills-based job matching process, helping organizations tap into diverse talent pools and optimize their hiring practices.

Learners are encouraged to select their desired career paths and focus areas. With content sourced from over 300 industry partners, the platform provides industry-aligned courses that are modular and adaptable to the evolving job market. As a result, learners can continually upskill to remain competitive.

Customized Learning Journey

One of the standout features of the (d)Academy is its AI-driven skills mapping technology, which personalizes the educational experience. Users can upload their CVs or input their skills manually. The AI verifies this data and suggests relevant courses to bridge existing skills gaps. As users progress, they receive tailored recommendations to advance their careers without experiencing data overload.

Additionally, partners can map their content directly onto the platform for enhanced course suggestions, while businesses are empowered to identify skills deficiencies within their workforce. This aligns hiring efforts with educational objectives, creating a seamless experience for learners and employers alike.

The Digital Skills Passport

The introduction of the Digital Skills Passport, a dedicated mobile application, greatly enhances user engagement. With this app, individuals can showcase their unique skills and connect with potential employers. By streamlining the application process, candidates can apply for jobs or receive direct invitations from recruiters, providing them with more agency in their career trajectories. The privacy-centric design ensures users' data is only shared when both parties express interest.

A Vision for the Future

The launch of the (d)Academy reflects EIT Digital’s commitment to securing Europe’s future in the technology-driven global economy. As CEO Federico Menna highlights, addressing the skills gap is essential for maintaining competitiveness and fostering innovation. The initiative aims to activate 100 million Skills Passports by 2030, a bold move designed to prevent crippling economic losses estimated at €11.2 trillion across 14 G20 nations.

In the words of Diva Tommei, Chief Innovation and Education Officer, “Learning must be accessible, adaptive, and ongoing.” The (d)Academy embodies this vision, equipping individuals with vital tools to excel in a rapidly changing tech landscape and contributing to a culture of lifelong education.

For more details, visit EIT Digital and dAcademy.