Cost, time and lack of incentives hinder continuous learning

These last two barriers are particularly relevant, given that almost half of Portuguese respondents (48%) believe that it should be up to companies to guarantee lifelong learning . In contrast, only 23% indicate that this learning is their own responsibility and 28% indicate that the public sector is responsible.

Employability and efficiency motivate investment

On the other hand, as for the main reasons for investing in continuous learning, 37% indicate the need to adapt to changes in the job market and new technologies , while 35% identify the increase in efficiency and productivity in the workplace.

Three in ten (30%) of the Portuguese people interviewed believe that they should embrace training as a way of boosting their employability and professional competitiveness , while 27% emphasize that learning adds value to them within organizations. On the other hand, 26% indicate the development of a continuous learning mentality as a reason.

Main reasons: ㅤ 37% Adapt to market changes and new technologies; 35% Increase efficiency and productivity; 30% Boost employability; 27% Add value within the organization;

26% Develop a continuous learning mindset.

Regarding the future of work, the majority (81%) of the Portuguese interviewed believe that lifelong learning will be vital and, although they acknowledge that new jobs will emerge, they are confident in their ability to remain competitive in the job market (74%). Even so, 64% admit that “climbing” the corporate ladder — that is, progressing in their career — will become more difficult.

And when it comes to the disciplines that will be most sought after in lifelong learning over the next five years, Artificial Intelligence and data science stand out, alongside technology and digitalization, health and well-being, sustainability and management.

Half of Portuguese people believe that practical experience and non-formal training (self-study, courses, workshops) will be more important than formal diplomas.

“The report also indicates that half of Portuguese people believe that practical experience and non-formal training (self-study, courses, workshops ) will be more important than formal diplomas , highlighting the need to adapt to a market in constant transformation”, it is highlighted in a statement.

Incidentally, of the 15 countries analysed in “Tomorrow's skills”, Portugal stands out (along with Italy and Spain) as one of the countries with the most favourable opinion regarding digital learning and professional development platforms: more than half (57%) of respondents consider the impact of these platforms to be very positive and 65% are open to using this type of platform.

This report was presented this month by the president of Banco Santander, Ana Botín, at an event also attended by the president of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola.