In today’s data-driven world, being able to understand and analyze data is quickly becoming as essential as reading and writing. Across the UK, industries are scrambling for talent who can make sense of the numbers. The government’s recent National Data Strategy highlights this surge – demand for data skills has more than tripled since 2013. Nearly half of UK businesses are now recruiting for roles that require data proficiency. The catch? There aren’t enough data-skilled workers to go around. In fact, universities currently produce only about 10,000 data science graduates per year, yet an estimated 178,000–234,000 data roles need filling. It’s no surprise that 46% of businesses have struggled to hire data-related jobs in recent years. This growing skills gap puts pressure on higher education to step up and equip students with data literacy, no matter what they study.
So you’ve just graduated with a degree in data science, statistics, or a related field—and now you're stepping into the job market. The competition is fierce, and while your academic background matters, it's often not enough on its own. Employers hiring for data roles are looking for something more than just a transcript. They want proof that you cando the work.
Here’s what they’re really looking for—and how you can show them you're ready.
🎯 What Employers AreActuallyLooking For
Whether you're applying for a data analyst, data scientist, or data engineer role, these are the top qualities employers want to see:
1. Technical Proficiency in Core Tools
2.Real-World Data Experience
3. Analytical & Problem-Solving Mindset
4. Communication Skills
5. A Strong Portfolio
The Qlik Academic Program is designed to equip you with the skills and tools that today’s employers are looking for. With access to interactive video modules, quizzes, and ready-to-use lesson plans, you can build a strong foundation in data analytics at your own pace. You’ll also have the opportunity to earn qualifications and certifications that demonstrate your expertise and help you stand out in the job market. Best of all, you’ll receivefree access to Qlik software for a full year—giving you the freedom to explore, practice, and apply what you’ve learned to real-world projects. Don’t miss out—sign up today and take advantage of everything the Qlik Academic Program has to offer.https://www.qlik.com/us/company/academic-program
Final Thoughts
The data job market values proof over potential. While your degree lays the foundation, your projects, portfolio, and communication are what seal the deal. Show that you’ve gone beyond the classroom—solving real problems, using real tools, and sharing real insights—and you'll be exactly the kind of candidate hiring managers are hoping to find.
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We are delighted to introduce one of our new Qlik Educator Ambassadors for 2025: Dr.Terrence Perera, Module Leader at the triple-accredited Management School of The University of Sheffield, United Kingdom. With over 30 years of experience in the UK higher education sector, Terrence brings both deep academic insight and a practical vision for the future of business analytics education.
Across Latin America, the need for data skills is growing faster than ever. A recent World Economic Forum article shows that 84% of employers are stepping up to train their teams, knowing that the future will be shaped by AI, big data, and digital technologies. But the challenge is big: many leaders also say we need more public support to help people gain the skills they need to succeed.
Today, learning data analysis, critical thinking, and digital literacy is essential to thrive in a world that is changing every day. Without action, the digital gap in Latin America could grow even wider, making it harder for people and businesses to compete on the global stage.
That is where the Qlik Academic Program comes in. Qlik is offering students and educators free access to powerful data analytics software, self-paced online courses, and valuable certifications. Whether you are a student getting ready to launch your career or a professor helping to prepare the next generation of leaders, these resources give you the tools to turn information into action and dreams into opportunities.
Are you ready to start your journey with data?
Explore how you can access these free resources at www.qlik.com/academicprogram.
Reference: The Future of Jobs in Latin America and the Caribbean – World Economic Forum
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I feel pleased to welcome Dr. Manikandan Sundaram as the Qlik Academic Program Educator Ambassador for 2025.
Manikandan is currently the Dean of the School of Computing and Head of the Data Science and Analytics Centre at Rathinam Technical Campus, Coimbatore, India.
Equipping the Next Generation of Analysts: Alexander Flaig on Teaching with Qlik
When Alexander Flaig set out to design his Business Analytics course in 2023, his goal was simple but ambitious: give students hands-on experience with tools they’d actually use in the real world. That’s why he made Qlik a cornerstone of the curriculum from day one.
Fast forward to today, and Qlik has become more than just a platform in the classroom—it’s a launchpad for careers.
From the Classroom to the Interview Room
The impact of integrating Qlik into coursework has been immediate and powerful. “Yes, some of my students have landed internships and jobs thanks to their Qlik knowledge,” Alexander shares. “One student was eveninterruptedduring a job interview because they knew more about Qlik than expected.”
These moments underscore what happens when education stays aligned with industry trends: students graduate with skills that employers are actively seeking.
Certifications, Real Projects, and Industry Collaboration
Alexander’s course doesn’t stop at theory. Students earn certifications like Qlik’s Business Analyst and Data Architect credentials, which help them stand out in a competitive job market. The capstone project involves building interactive dashboards using real-world company data—last year, students collaborated withDrake Analytics, creating professional-grade visualizations that speak volumes about their capabilities.
“Check out one of the dashboards from last year’s class—it’s a testament to how powerful learning becomes when it's rooted in real-world application.”
Looking Ahead: 2025 and Beyond
For Alexander, 2025 is all about continuing momentum. “My goal is to keep offering certifications and to integrate more AI-driven analytics into the course,” he says. With the rapid evolution of AI and data tools, this forward-thinking approach ensures students stay at the cutting edge.
The Future of Higher Ed: Adapt or Fall Behind
The course has grown from 20 to 80 students in just a year—a clear sign that demand for practical, industry-relevant education is surging. “Many students say it’s one of the best courses they’ve ever taken,” Flaig adds. “Higher education is in the middle of a transformation. Institutions must adapt to this new reality—or risk becoming obsolete.”
Beyond the Classroom
When he’s not teaching, Alexander can be found researching and speaking about AI strategies and emerging technologies. He brings that same future-focused energy to his classroom, ensuring students not only understand the tools of today but are prepared for the challenges of tomorrow.
On Being a Qlik Educator Ambassador
As an Educator Ambassador, Alexander hopes to deepen his understanding of the Qlik ecosystem and expand its footprint in education. “I want to gain deeper insights into the Qlik toolbox and use my role to spread awareness about the benefits of Qlik in academic settings,” he says.
With his passion for teaching, commitment to real-world learning, and drive to innovate, Alexander Flaig is not just teaching analytics—he’s redefining what business education can be.
To learn more about theQlik Academic Programand how to access free Qlik Sense software and training resources, visitqlik.com/academicprogram
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We're excited to welcome Juana Zuntini to the Qlik Educator Ambassador community for 2025. A passionate educator since 2017, Juana has been redefining how students connect with data, bringing it to life through interactive, hands-on learning powered by the Qlik Academic Program.
Her dedication to data literacy and innovation is helping shape a new generation of confident, curious, and career-ready students who understand that data isn’t just numbers; it’s the key to telling powerful stories and making real-world impact.
We’re proud to welcome back Marcin Stawarz as a Qlik Educator Ambassador for 2025! Building on the momentum of the past year, Marcin continues to be a passionate advocate for data literacy and innovation in education, helping to shape the next generation of data-driven professionals through the Qlik Academic Program.
My Journey with Qlik in Teaching
For the past two years, Katherine has been integrating Qlik into her teaching, particularly within the realms of public health informatics and healthcare analytics. This powerful tool has enabled students to transform complex datasets into meaningful insights that drive informed decision-making in healthcare.
The Inspiration Behind Using Qlik
As a nurse informaticist and educator, her goal has always been to bridge the gap between data analysis and patient-centered care. Qlik’s intuitive interface and robust analytics capabilities make it an ideal platform for teaching students how to visualize and interpret healthcare data effectively. By working with real-world datasets, students develop critical thinking skills essential for enhancing patient outcomes.
Integrating Qlik into the Classroom
Qlik has become an integral part of her courses through hands-on exercises that allow students to analyze healthcare trends, public health data, and social determinants of health. She encourages them to engage with Qlik’s training modules and certification programs, providing them with a competitive advantage in the job market. By working on real-world scenarios, students build dashboards that offer actionable insights for healthcare professionals.
Real-World Impact: Internships and Job Opportunities
Many of her students have successfully leveraged their Qlik experience to secure internships and jobs in healthcare analytics, informatics, and hospital systems. Employers value candidates who can translate raw data into impactful visualizations, and Qlik’s capabilities align seamlessly with industry demands.
Classroom Goals for 2025
Looking ahead to 2025, Katherine's aim is to expand students' exposure to AI-driven analytics, predictive modeling, and data storytelling. Additionally, she plans to strengthen partnerships with healthcare organizations to create more immersive learning experiences and projects that address real-world healthcare challenges.
Industry Trends and the Future of Analytics in Education
The healthcare industry is increasingly driven by data, with AI, machine learning, and predictive analytics playing pivotal roles in decision-making. The demand for real-time data sharing is also on the rise, necessitating strong analytical skills among professionals. In higher education, there is a growing emphasis on equipping students with applied analytics experience rather than just theoretical knowledge.
Life Beyond Teaching
Outside the classroom, she enjoys staying active through swimming, running, and yoga. She also cherishes spending time outdoors with my family and our two German Shorthaired Pointers. Residing in Texas, I remain passionate about integrating informatics into nursing practice and education.
Looking Forward as an Educator Ambassador
As an Educator Ambassador, she is eager to collaborate with fellow educators, explore innovative teaching strategies, and enhance student engagement with data analytics. She looks forward to contributing insights on leveraging Qlik within nursing and healthcare informatics while embracing new opportunities for professional growth.
"I am excited about the year ahead and grateful for the opportunity to share my journey!"
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I am pleased to introduce Qlik Academic Program Educator Ambassador for 2025, Chee-wai, Ho from Republic Polytechnic, Singapore.
Chee-wai has been actively involved in upskilling adult learners in data literacy for more than five years in Republic Polytechnic’s Specialist Diploma in Business Analytics (SDBA) in Singapore. According to Chee-wai, “Data literacy in practical translates into identifying and correcting data issues, follow by data visualization to make informed business decisions. This is also the foundation for fruitful predictive and prescriptive analytics.”
