The demand for generative AI training has grown significantly among both individual learners and enterprises, according to Coursera data highlighted in the World Economic Forum (WEF) Future of Jobs Report 2025. Demand for AI skills has accelerated globally, with India and the United States leading in enrolment numbers, but the factors driving demand differ between the two countries. In the United States, demand is primarily driven by individual users, whereas in India, corporate sponsorship plays a significant role in boosting GenAI training uptake, according to the report section "Demand for generative AI skills," created in collaboration with Coursera.
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Generative AI Training Growth
Globally, individual learners on Coursera have focused on foundational GenAI skills and conceptual topics, such as prompt engineering, trustworthy AI practices, and strategic decision-making around AI. Meanwhile, institution-sponsored learners are prioritising practical applications within the workplace, including using AI tools to enhance efficiency in platforms such as Excel or developing AI-powered applications.
"These trends reflect a tailored approach to GenAI learning, where individuals focus on foundational knowledge-building while organisations prioritise training that delivers immediate workplace productivity gains," the report said.
Based on data from over 1,000 companies, the report finds that the skills gap remains the most significant barrier to business transformation, with nearly 40 percent of job skills expected to change and 63 percent of employers citing it as their primary challenge.
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AI's Role in Upskilling the Workforce
"AI and other fast-growing technologies are transforming business models and driving new mandates for employee upskilling," Coursera CEO Jeff Maggioncalda said in a blog post on January 8, 2025, highlighting that "By 2030, 92 million jobs will be displaced, and 170 million new ones will be created, a net increase of 78 million."
According to the data, 80 percent of employers plan to upskill workers with AI training and two-thirds plan to hire talent with specific AI skills, while only 40 percent plan to reduce their workforce as AI automates certain tasks.
"Online learning will play a vital role in addressing the widespread skills gap, driving workforce transformation, and supporting job transitions," Coursera said.
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Coursera's Role in Bridging the AI Skills Gap
Of nearly 7.4 million AI enrollments on the platform in 2024, over 3.2 million enrollments were in GenAI training–an average of six enrollments per minute (compared to two enrollments in GenAI content per minute in 2023). India and the United States led enrollment numbers, Coursera reported.
The world's top technology companies and research universities launched over 670 courses and guided projects on Coursera in response to the growing global AI imperative, Coursera said.
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Top Growing Jobs by 2030
According to the report, the fastest-growing jobs by 2030 included Big Data specialists, FinTech engineers, AI and machine learning specialists, software and application developers, security management specialists, data warehousing specialists, and autonomous and electric vehicle specialists.