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Across Russia, a notable share of workers faced an unmet IT connectivity gap, with 46% expressing frustration over missing access to information technology resources that could unlock the benefits available to IT professionals within the country. This finding emerges from a survey conducted by the NAFI Analytical Center for socialbites.ca and highlights a persistent mismatch between awareness of industry opportunities and the practical means to participate in the IT sector.

The study further reveals that more than half of Russians, 56%, are aware of government support measures aimed at the IT industry. These measures include possible deferrals and preferential mortgage options tied to national security considerations. While public knowledge of these programs is growing, there remains a sizable portion of the workforce that has yet to explore how such incentives could enhance their career trajectory and personal finances. The data underscore a policy landscape in which government backing is acknowledged, yet its full value depends on individuals taking informed steps to engage with available programs.

Looking at motivation and readiness, about one third of working Russians, 36%, express a clear desire to pursue targeted education that would help them access and benefit from these support schemes. This interest is most pronounced among those who rate their current financial situation as excellent, a group that accounts for roughly 84% in the survey. The disparity between financial comfort and educational uptake suggests a potential mismatch between perceived opportunity and actual engagement. When people are confident about their finances, they are more likely to invest time and resources into specialized training that aligns with government incentives and industry needs.

Elena Guseva, head of NAFI Analytics research projects, emphasizes the importance of expanding initiatives that support the IT sector. She notes that every additional advantage for IT professionals enhances the profession’s appeal and helps attract high-quality talent to the field. This perspective aligns with broader industry observations: a robust talent pipeline is essential for sustaining innovation, keeping pace with global digital demands, and ensuring continued competitiveness in both the Canadian and American markets where cross-border tech collaboration is increasingly common. Strengthened programs can also mitigate regional skill gaps by offering pathways for upskilling and reskilling, enabling workers in different sectors to transition into IT roles that match current economic needs and public interest in technological advancement.

Earlier surveys by socialbites.ca indicated a tendency among Russians to hesitate when considering IT careers, with a significant portion deciding against mastering the field due to the belief that it is too late to learn something new. That sentiment, though prevalent, contrasts with the shifting reality of a digital economy that rewards continuous learning and proactive career planning. As the IT sector continues to evolve, the perceived barrier of age or late entry is increasingly challenged by accessible training programs, online education platforms, and employer-sponsored upskilling initiatives that make it feasible for mid-career professionals to pivot successfully. The takeaway for policymakers and industry leaders is clear: early and ongoing exposure to IT concepts, coupled with practical pathways to certification and employment, can help convert reluctance into opportunity and keep the workforce aligned with demand across North America and beyond.