Across the world, people are scrambling to stay ahead in the AI literacy race. And whilst some countries are managing to keep up, others it seems are falling behind.
But when it comes to upskilling, new research from AI and data-skills training provider Kubicle reveals a surprising frontrunner in the Western race for AI literacy: Ireland.
Through analysing search terms like “ChatGPT training”, “AI courses” and “how to improve data literacy”, Kubicle released their list of English-speaking countries that are upskilling the most around AI learning.
The result? Ireland takes the top spot.
Following closely behind are Australia and the UK.
The AI Literacy League Table
Through analysing the data online, Kubicle ranked the top countries upskilling in AI in the following order:
- Ireland
- Australia
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Netherlands
- Germany
- Canada
- Spain
- Sweden
- France
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Are Countries Playing Catch Up?
But the countries leading the way in AI upskilling is just one part of the picture. Another key insight from the research is just how many people across the Western world are still playing catch-up with basic IT skills.
In fact, the research found that Microsoft Excel, a programme many learn in school, is still the most in-demand skill worldwide. Unsurprisingly, this is closely followed by Microsoft PowerPoint and Word.
And yet, according to Kubicle, there has been a 960% growth in the uptake of their AI Fundamentals course and a 124% growth in their Data Literacy course.
But with so much focus on AI and so little on the basics, are people learning to run before they can walk?
Mark Henderson, CEO of Kubicle, commented “Our own data shows that many organisations continue to lag behind in essential digital competencies, particularly across core tools such as Excel, PowerPoint and Word. These are not niche skills; they form the foundation of effective digital communication and analysis.”
Can The UK Learn From Ireland’s Lead?
Whilst some may be surprised that Ireland is leading the charge with digital upskilling, the truth is that this is no accident.
In recent years, Ireland has become one of Europe’s fastest-growing tech hubs, with huge companies like Google, Accenture, Meta and Apple operating large offices there. And with corporate taxes sitting around 12.5%, it’s a huge draw for big companies looking to improve their profits.
Additionally, being an EU member means companies in Ireland have access to the free market and funding programmes, making it an appealing location.
No surprise then that so many people in Ireland are looking to maximise on the wealth of opportunities that are landing on their doorstep.
Mark Henderson continued “The findings highlight where the global workforce is most actively future-proofing their skills. Ireland’s leading position reflects a national focus on digital readiness…whether that’s AI literacy and ChatGPT, Power BI, Tableau or Alteryx.”
The Importance Of Upskilling In AI
Artificial intelligence is no longer a skill that is a ‘nice to have’, it’s an important part of the digital workforce.
Globally, people across the world are racing to improve their digital skills, and right now, Ireland is setting the pace.
So, as the race for AI literacy continues, the question is: Who will keep up? And who will be left behind?
