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This study explores the digital skills mismatch between youth and employers in Albania, drawing on data from seven municipalities of Elbasan County representing diverse socio-economic profiles. A total of 175 individuals aged 15–29 and 103 businesses participated in structured surveys assessing ten digital competencies defined by the European Union’s DigComp framework. The analysis compares youth self-assessments with employer expectations using descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests, including the Wilcoxon signed-rank, Sign test, and one-sample t-test. Results indicate a consistent overestimation of digital competencies by youth, especially in collaboration, data analysis, and cybersecurity, while employers prioritize practical skills such as digital process optimization and secure digital environments. Statistically significant gaps suggest a disconnect between digital education outcomes and labor market needs, shaped by local economic and sectoral contexts. The findings provide empirical evidence to inform targeted policy and education strategies aimed at addressing regional disparities and enhancing youth inclusion in the digital workforce. This research highlights the importance of better aligning training initiatives with real-world demands to support more effective transitions from education to employment.

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Youth–Employer Alignment in the Digital Era: A Quantitative Assessment of the Digital Skills Mismatch

  • 会议论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年

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  • Megi Marku,
  • Ermira Tafani,
  • Diamanta Vito,
  • Aida Saraçi

摘要

This study explores the digital skills mismatch between youth and employers in Albania, drawing on data from seven municipalities of Elbasan County representing diverse socio-economic profiles. A total of 175 individuals aged 15–29 and 103 businesses participated in structured surveys assessing ten digital competencies defined by the European Union’s DigComp framework. The analysis compares youth self-assessments with employer expectations using descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests, including the Wilcoxon signed-rank, Sign test, and one-sample t-test. Results indicate a consistent overestimation of digital competencies by youth, especially in collaboration, data analysis, and cybersecurity, while employers prioritize practical skills such as digital process optimization and secure digital environments. Statistically significant gaps suggest a disconnect between digital education outcomes and labor market needs, shaped by local economic and sectoral contexts. The findings provide empirical evidence to inform targeted policy and education strategies aimed at addressing regional disparities and enhancing youth inclusion in the digital workforce. This research highlights the importance of better aligning training initiatives with real-world demands to support more effective transitions from education to employment.