Closing the Data and AI Skills Gap: How Academia and Industry Can Prepare Tomorrow’s Workforce

[ElizCayirli]

Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how organizations work, compete and make decisions. But technology alone does not create value—people do. To succeed in an increasingly data- and AI-driven workplace, graduates need more than theoretical knowledge. They need the confidence to work with data, question results, communicate insights and apply modern technologies to real-world challenges.

[ElizCayirli]

Universities play a critical role in developing these capabilities, but they should not have to do it alone. Meaningful collaboration between academia and industry can help educators connect curricula with workplace needs while giving students practical experience before they begin their careers.

This is the purpose of the Qlik Academic Program.

The program provides qualified university educators and students with free access to Qlik technology and learning resources. Members can develop experience with Qlik Cloud Analytics, Qlik Predict, Qlik Answers and Qlik Talend Cloud, exploring the complete data journey—from integrating and preparing trusted data to visualization, predictive analytics and AI-powered answers. They can also access self-paced learning pathways, ready-to-use teaching materials and Qlik product qualifications that help them demonstrate their knowledge.

Access, however, is only the starting point. The greatest impact happens when these resources become part of meaningful, hands-on learning.

Across EMEA, we have seen the results of this approach. At the University of Worcester, a two-day bootcamp gave students the opportunity to build practical analytics skills with support from Qlik experts. Every participating student passed the Qlik Business Analyst Qualification. At AGH University of Science and Technology in Poland, an advanced workshop introduced master’s students to predictive analytics, AI and practical business applications. Further collaborations across Germany, Portugal, Spain and other markets are helping educators bring current industry technology and real-world problem-solving into their classrooms.

Our Educator Ambassador community strengthens this work further. These educators champion data literacy within their institutions, exchange effective teaching practices and help us understand how academic needs are evolving. Their experience ensures that the program remains grounded not only in technology, but also in the realities of teaching and learning.

None of this happens through software alone. Educators contribute subject expertise and an understanding of their students. Qlik colleagues and volunteers share technical knowledge and industry experience. Students contribute curiosity, creativity and new perspectives. Together, they create learning environments in which data becomes something students actively explore rather than simply study.

For Qlik, this makes the Academic Program much more than a free technology initiative. It is a long-term investment in the global data and AI ecosystem. Students who graduate with practical experience, stronger data literacy and Qlik qualifications enter the workforce better prepared to create value with data. They may become future analysts, consultants, customers, partners, educators or innovators—and their capabilities will benefit the organizations and communities they join.

Preparing tomorrow’s workforce is a shared responsibility. By connecting accessible technology, relevant learning resources, committed educators and industry expertise, we can help students move confidently from classroom knowledge to career-ready capability.

The Qlik Academic Program is proud to support that journey.

Are you a university educator or student? Discover the Qlik Academic Program and start your journey today!