Technology Ireland DIGITAL Skillnet DataSMART Programme Aims to Upskill 10,000 Non-IT Professionals

Technology Ireland DIGITAL Skillnet has launched an ambitious new data literacy programme, with the aim of upskilling over 10,000 non-IT professionals over the coming years. 

The DataSMART programme, developed in partnership with Microsoft Ireland and The Analytics Institute, has been designed for individuals eager to harness data strategically and thrive in the rapidly evolving age of Artificial Intelligence (AI). 

Data analytics is the backbone of AI development and application. It ensures that AI models are trained effectively, yield accurate results, and remain relevant over time. Professionals with strong data analytics skills can harness AI’s full potential by leveraging data intelligently. 

Commenting on the impact of the programme, Maire Hunt, Director, Technology Ireland DIGITAL Skillnet, said: “DataSMART is the most ambitious national upskilling opportunity for companies to adopt essential data skills that has been created to date. Our ambition is to train over 10,000 professionals from all backgrounds and across all sectors, over the next three years." 

Kevin Marshall, Head of Future Skilling, Microsoft Ireland, said: “Microsoft Ireland is committed to providing upskilling opportunities for all. As organisations engage with the AI revolution, data analysis skills are fundamental. This initiative will equip individuals with crucial skills for effective data navigation and informed decision-making. We are pleased to collaborate with the Technolofgy Ireland Digital Skillnet and the Analytics Institute on this important programme.”  

Tracey Donnery, Director of Policy & Communications, Skillnet Ireland, said: “This programme was developed as the result of the Data and Digital Skills for non-IT roles report from Skillnet Ireland and IDA Ireland, which revealed that 49% of surveyed companies identified a data analysis skill gap among non-IT employees. As digital technologies continue to permeate every aspect of business operations, programmes like DataSMART will play a crucial role in driving efficiency and innovation and supporting the competitiveness of Irish companies to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the digital and AI revolutions.” 

Studies show that those staff that are familiar with core data skills will progress faster in their careers. Furthermore, research confirms that companies making data driven decisions make faster market progress and revenue. 

Data SMART will allow working professionals to acquire data literacy competence in a flexible, low-cost way during a 12-week learning window that combines online tutorials with hands-on, interactive workshops and Datathon. 

Lorcan Malone, CEO, Analytics Institute, said: “Already multiple companies have signed up for the Data SMART Initiative with companies able to train large numbers of staff in a very flexible, low-cost manner, with minimum impact on the flow of work. This will boost careers nationally and internationally, as well as enabling leaders to adopt a data driven approach to decisions in an increasing challenging commercial landscape.”  

Further information about the DataSMART programme is available on the Technology Ireland DIGITAL Skillnet website: www.datasmart.digitalskillnet.ie/  

The full Data and Digital Skills for non-IT roles report is available on the Skillnet Ireland website. 

European Social Fund (ESF+) 

DataSMART is part of Skillnet Ireland’s suite of European Social Fund (ESF+) upskilling programmes, which support the delivery of the lifelong learning, in particular flexible upskilling, and reskilling opportunities for all, including entrepreneurial and digital skills, and meeting labour market skills needs. These programmes also facilitate career transitions and promote professional mobility for workers across all sectors and regions in Ireland. Skillnet Ireland’s ESF+ activity is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union. 

Further information about Skillnet Ireland’s European Social Fund (ESF+) upskilling programmes is available, here.