Fewer vacancies for ICT jobs, partly due to AI – IO+

This post was originally published on this site.

The number of vacancies for intermediate vocational education (MBO) ICT jobs will fall in the coming years, according to a new report from the Employee Insurance Agency (UWV). This is at odds with the trend of growing personnel shortages in other sectors of the labor market. One of the causes: artificial intelligence (AI) can take over some of the ICT work.

In general, there still appear to be staff shortages in many sectors. The number of vacancies for senior secondary vocational education (MBO) is 13% higher than last year. Most vacancies are in the hospitality, retail and healthcare sectors. The labor market is expected to remain tight, also for professions in technology and the built environment.

ICT popular

There are several reasons for the shrinking number of vacancies in the ICT sector. For example, ICT has become very popular among young people. Nowadays, almost everyone has digital skills.

Artificial intelligence is taking over work

The rise of artificial intelligence also plays a role. ICT work can be partially taken over by computers. AI and automation may already be taking over tasks from ICT professionals at the senior secondary vocational level.

AI in education: between innovation and controversy

While some schools embrace AI with innovative study days, others are fighting against its unauthorized use. This contradiction perfectly illustrates education’s current struggle with this new technology.