Turkey’s information and communications sector has reached a historic milestone, with a major surge reflecting the growing importance of technology and digitalization. The number of paid employees in the sector surged to an all-time high of around 290,911 as of March, according to the latest data compiled by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TurkStat).
Across industries including manufacturing, construction and trade services, Turkey’s total paid workforce reached a record high of 15.23 million in March, surpassing the 14.84 million recorded in the same period last year, according to TurkStat figures.
A closer look at the breakdown of paid employees in Turkey reveals a consistent upward trend in the information and communications sector in recent months: at the end of last year, the number of employees stood at 289,599, rising to 290,165 in the first month of this year.
In February, employment in this sector totaled 290,270 people, but in March it hit a record high of 290,991.
“Job growth is important for the economy”
Ismet Demirkolu, founder of Paritherium Consultancy, highlighted the importance of technology and digitalization on Turkey’s policy agenda, which he said reflects global trends. He noted that prioritizing technological advancements has boosted productivity in various sectors, especially in the economy.
Demirkoru stressed that “the increase in employment in the information and communications sector is significant for the country’s economy. We expect employment in this sector to continue to grow as demand increases.”
Additionally, he stressed the need for more support for the sector to facilitate Turkey’s transition to the league of developed countries. This includes strengthening the workforce with the requisite skills required for digital transformation and technology. Demirkolu advocated for increased funding and ecosystem support, as well as the inclusion of subjects such as software and coding in education curricula.
The impressive growth in paid employment in Turkey’s information and communications sector not only underscores the sector’s pivotal role in the country’s economic landscape, but also points to a promising trajectory as Turkey enters the digital age.
Source: Newsroom