DIGITAL COMPETENCE OF FUTURE FINANCE PROFESSIONALS AS A CRUCIAL CONDITION FOR COMPETITIVENESS IN THE LABOR MARKET

Abstract

The article addresses the pressing issue of developing digital competence among future finance professionals in the context of rapid digitalization of the economy and transformation of the labor market. The authors emphasize that mastery of digital technologies has ceased to be an additional skill and has become a key condition for the competitiveness of finance specialists. Based on an analysis of job postings, professional standards, and employer requirements, the most in-demand digital competencies have been identified. A comparative analysis of labor market requirements and the provisions of the Federal State Educational Standards (FSES) revealed significant gaps in student preparation. The authors propose additional professional competencies that promote practice-oriented training for future finance professionals. Results of an experimental study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of integrating digital technologies into the practical training of future finance specialists are presented. The authors conclude that modernization of educational programs, taking into account the real demands of employers, is necessary.