In April 2026 AWS and Pearson introduced a global study spanning six countries to assess gaps between higher education and workplace AI demands. They unveiled the AI Readiness Friction Framework, identifying six friction points to guide institutions and employers in synchronizing curriculum with on-the-job AI capabilities.

The survey of over 2,700 learners, educators, and employers found 53% of companies struggle to find graduates with applied AI skills while only 14% of recent graduates report high proficiency in using AI tools professionally. Meanwhile, 78% of higher education leaders believe they meet employer expectations, underscoring a disconnect between self-assessment and industry needs.

Amazon agreed to grant two weeks’ wages to 84 delivery drivers under a U.S. labor board settlement to avoid a joint-employer ruling that could expand contractor liabilities. The settlement allows Amazon to sidestep a court decision on joint-employer status without admitting wrongdoing.