A report by the Great Learning for Business has suggested a significant shift in corporate training priorities, with a doubled demand for mid-level (35% in FY25 from 15% in FY24) and senior-level employee training in FY25.
This focus aims to enhance innovation and leadership capabilities amid AI-driven workplace changes, targeting employees who bridge execution and leadership roles.
AI and Generative AI (GenAI) training dominate FY26 workforce development, with,
- 48% of organisations in IT/ITeS
- 14% in Manufacturing & Supply Chain
- 10% each in BFSI and Healthcare prioritising these skills.
- Data Science and Analytics training is led by IT/ITeS (47%) and BFSI (21%),
- Cybersecurity is critical for 50% of IT firms, reflecting the growing need for technical skills across functions.
Strategic learning approaches
Enterprises are refining L&D strategies, with 26% tailoring role-specific training, 25% aligning content with emerging trends, and 19% emphasising industry certifications.
Additionally, 13% invest in external expertise and skills-gap analyses to boost retention and career growth.
“This deliberate, data-driven approach elevates learning from a routine compliance task to a systematic growth driver, thereby enabling L&D leaders to achieve stronger returns on every training investment,” Great Learning for Business notes.
While FY24 saw over 80% of training focused on early-career professionals, FY25 experienced a temporary decline due to macroeconomic caution in tech hiring.
A resurgence in FY26 prioritises AI and GenAI skills for thousands of early-career professionals, aligning with evolving market demands.