Technology Skills and Employability in the Digital Age

It is not news any more that the world’s population is increasing at an exponential rate 0.88% in 2023 based on the National Bureau of Statistics report) while employment opportunities shrink daily. In today's contemporary world, human beings face competition with robotics and Artificial Intelligence, which poses serious challenges and sparked the need to embrace new skills to survive in the technology-driven globe. Although it is natural for a human being to resist change, as psychologists believe, reality often checks and shakes out technophobia. ?

The rapid advancement of the internet and “internet of things” particularly, the rise of Artificial Intelligence and robots have transformed the dynamics of the global job market. Consequently, acquiring new and harnessing skills is no longer just an option but a necessity for survival in today's tech-driven world. Therefore, Nigeria being “the giant of Africa” blessed with numerous talented people has a great opportunity to flatten the curve of its unemployment rate, which according to the NBS 2023, reached 4.10% in the first quarter of 2023. This will go a long way in enhancing youth skills for exploiting the technologies to create jobs, absorb youth and contribute to the country’s economic growth.? Fundamentally, the link between technology and employability is crucial for leveraging technical abilities for lucrative careers in this digital era.??

Although Nigeria as a country has seen remarkable growth in its digital economy according to Statista (according to Statista2023, it contributed 18.44% to the country’s GDP in Q2 2022), this calls for more determination to tech skills that can satiate the demand of industries for a workforce equipped with technical expertise to navigate this digital landscape effectively.

Thus, attentions need to shift from basic digital literacy to advanced skills like programming, data analysis, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. More so, all fields of human endeavour require new relevant skills to enhance job prospects, drive innovation, and nurture sustainable economic growth. Coincidentally, corporate organisations nowadays hire techno-savvy who can improve processes, boost efficiency, and fuel business growth. Eventually, acquiring skills is a critical factor for career advancement and securing employment opportunities as stressed by Nigerian former Minister of Communication and Digital Economy Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami in his book “Skills Rather Than Just Degrees” authored.?

Furthermore, although Nigerian youth are committed to education, investing in tech education and skill development programs from an early age is crucial in grooming a pool of skilled professionals ready to tackle the challenges of this digital era. This can be achieved through public and private sector concerted efforts to ensure inclusive educational initiatives and support, access to quality education and resources for youth skills acquisition. Moreover, continuous learning, upskilling, and perseverance remain relevant and adaptable to the changing job market demands.

In essence, tech skills are the cornerstone of employability in Nigeria and other worlds, therefore, embracing news skills will unlock diverse career paths, foster innovation and drive economic growth. Collaboration among individuals, educational institutions, and policymakers is essential to nurture a tech-savvy workforce for Nigeria's prosperous future.