New research conducted for the National Broadband Network (NBN) has revealed a connection between the rollout of the network and the upskilling of Australia’s next generation workforce.
The research, conducted by AlphaBeta for NBN, showed skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), combined with strong entrepreneurial skills, were increasingly important for the future workforce.
Minister for Communications, Cyber Safety and the Arts, Paul Fletcher said the Government’s clear and effective focus on connecting all Australians to fast broadband as soon as possible was a crucial enabler of the next generation being ready for the workforce of the future.
“This research makes clear that access to the high-speed broadband on the NBN is helping to build digital literacy skills and power entrepreneurship,” Mr Fletcher said.
Among the research findings were that high growth jobs demanded digital literacy skills almost seven times more frequently than occupations becoming less prevalent; the NBN was helping power a rise in entrepreneurship, with 40 per cent reported to be women; and by 2030 the use of STEM skills at work would almost double.
The research also found that primary school students in NBN-connected areas spend 75 minutes per week extra on homework online than those without NBN connections.
The NBN’s 20-page report can be accessed at this PS News link.
