ICT careers can ease demographic shifts

Some executives see a role for seniors amid a labour shortage, writes Suchit Leesa-nguansuk

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Mr Vasupon says with AI-driven support, senior talent can make even stronger contributions.

By prioritising performance and skills over age, the information and communications technology (ICT) sector can support an ageing society through flexible work and volunteer opportunities, say top executives.

Suitable roles include part-time positions, consultancy, system architecture, team mentoring, and oversight in security and reliability, noted the executives.

Vilaiporn Taweelappontong, Asia-Pacific financial services consulting leader at PwC Thailand, told the Bangkok Post Thailand is rapidly becoming an aged society.

Many countries including Thailand are considering raising the retirement age to sustain their workforce and ensure system stability.

Deputy Prime Minister Borwornsak Uwanno said earlier the government assigned the Office of the Civil Service Commission to study extending the retirement age for civil servants to 65.

The Thai labour market already faces shortages of highly skilled workers in several sectors, said Ms Vilaiporn.

"Retaining experienced personnel can help, but it's also necessary to urgently enhance the skills of the younger generation," she said.

Suggested measures include gradual or phased retirement, and part-time work following retirement, said Ms Vilaiporn.

Many Thai workers are outside the social security system, making it essential to strengthen social protection measures to prevent rising inequality, she said.

Rapid changes are causing some companies to seek out the latest skills among the younger generation, said Ms Vilaiporn.