Report Reveals Necessity of Merging Skills and Academic Qualifications

Report States Complementarity of Skills and Qualifications

In the rapidly evolving world we live in, the importance of education has never been more pronounced. For most people, a degree continues to be a strong path to economic stability and a wider range of opportunities. This is according to recent findings, with over 80% of people seeing continuous learning as essential for success, as reported by ETS's 2025 Human Progress Report.

The shift towards a skills-based economy, driven by artificial intelligence (AI), is speeding up. Amit Sevak, CEO of Educational Testing Service (ETS), advocates for leveraging science-driven, AI-powered solutions to help individuals prove their skills and stay competitive.

Sevak argues that degrees and professional certifications serve a "skills-based economy" equally. He emphasizes that degrees provide skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, which are in high demand by employers. On the other hand, certifications offer up-to-date, job-ready skills that are crucial in today's fast-paced work environment.

Sevak is clear that promoting apprenticeships, boot camps, and certifications is not about undercutting the value of higher education. Instead, it's about ensuring that education remains relevant and helps more people succeed. Innovations like stackable credentials, employer partnerships, and lifelong learning programs are essential steps in this direction.

Interestingly, over half of people are already actively pursuing skill development. This trend is further supported by the fact that employers now use skills-based hiring, with 81% of them doing so. The results of the 2025 Human Progress Report make it clear that learners want both the long-term benefits of a college degree and job-ready skills.

The search results do not provide specific information about Sevak emphasizing the importance of higher education for a skills-based economy. However, it is known that he believes higher education isn't just about landing a job or launching a startup. Instead, it's about equipping individuals with the skills they need to navigate the complexities of the modern world.

U.S. public trust in higher education is on the rise for the first time in a decade. According to a recent Gallup poll, 42% of Americans are confident in institutions of higher education. This is a positive sign, as colleges and universities can play a crucial role in leading the current upheaval and transformation in higher education if they can meet this moment with innovation, rigor, and inclusivity.

The future of education lies in embracing a skills-based approach. By 2030, over 6 in 10 people expect a world of verified resumes and digital skill wallets to showcase their value to the market. Digital wallets enable people to collect and manage credentials from multiple sources throughout their careers, according to Jobs for the Future.

In conclusion, the shift towards a skills-based economy necessitates a rethinking of the traditional education system. By focusing on continuous learning, relevant skills, and a holistic approach to education, institutions can help individuals thrive in this new era.