Foundit Survey Highlights Skill Gaps In India’s Workforce

Continuous learning has firmly entered the career mainstream in India, with 78% of professionals saying ongoing upskilling is critical for long-term career growth, according to a new survey by jobs and talent platform foundit (formerly Monster APAC & ME). However, strong intent is being undermined by structural constraints. Nearly two-thirds of respondents say lack of time or high course costs are holding them back from upskilling consistently, resulting in only 43% managing to learn on a weekly basis.

The survey, conducted among 2854 working professionals, highlights a clear execution gap. While 26% of respondents upskill monthly, another 26% say they learn only a few times a year or rarely, underscoring how time and affordability pressures are limiting sustained learning habits even as awareness remains high.

Learning frequency also has a direct impact on confidence about future employability. Only 32% of respondents say they are very confident their skills will remain relevant over the next three years, with confidence levels significantly higher among those who upskill weekly. Professionals who learn infrequently are far more likely to feel uncertain or anxious about keeping pace with evolving job requirements.

“Upskilling is no longer a differentiator. It's fast becoming a baseline expectation across roles and industries,” said Anupama Bhimrajka, VP, Marketing, foundit. “What the data clearly shows is that the challenge isn’t intent, but consistency. Time constraints and course affordability are emerging as the biggest friction points. Structured learning pathways, employer-supported programmes, and flexible, time-efficient formats will be critical to turning intent into sustained weekly learning.”

Key Insights from the Survey

Leadership and tech skills dominate upskilling priorities

India’s workforce is balancing technology adoption with people leadership capabilities.

Future readiness is the strongest motivator to upskill

Preparing for future job opportunities is the primary driver of upskilling, cited by 44% of respondents. This is followed by the need to stay relevant in current roles (36%), aspirations for higher pay or promotion (29%), and personal interest (24%).

Career pivots and leadership growth shape next learning goals

Looking ahead, professionals are prioritising broader career shifts and leadership readiness over incremental skill upgrades.

Time and cost emerge as the biggest barriers to consistent learning

Despite strong motivation, respondents highlight structural challenges that slow down upskilling momentum.

Flexible formats preferred, employer support remains critical

When it comes to learning formats, professionals favour flexibility, while still valuing credibility and organisational backing.

Overall, the findings suggest that while India’s workforce is highly motivated to upskill, closing the gap between intent and action will require better time-efficient learning models, stronger employer funding, and clearer guidance on skill prioritisation, especially for professionals constrained by work schedules and course affordability.