Romania faces digital skills gap despite high internet connectivity

Romania faces a significant digital divide as of 2025. While the country boasts high internet connectivity, with 95.47% of households having access—surpassing the European Union average of 94.76%—it ranks last in the EU for digital skills. Only 31.84% of the population possesses basic or advanced digital competencies.

This skill gap is expected to impact the labor market significantly. Projections indicate that by 2035, 32% of job opportunities in Romania will require high-level qualifications. Currently, the supply of specialists is expected to remain below market demand. Furthermore, only 11.8% of Romanian internet users reported using online learning materials in 2025, compared to 34.8% across the EU.

The rise of artificial intelligence is accelerating these shifts. Demands for roles exposed to AI are evolving twice as fast as those in less exposed sectors, with AI-specific skills potentially commanding a 62% salary premium. In response to these evolving needs, the Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies has opened applications for MBA and Executive MBA programs to address requirements in leadership, digital transformation, and strategic management.