Skills premium

There is an ongoing debate about the relative importance of academic degrees versus practical skills, with the latter seemingly becoming preferred especially in the digital market. The importance of skill development is not limited to the professional sphere alone as abilities like conflict resolution, negotiation, interpersonal and leadership skills are advantageous in personal settings as well.

There ought to be an introduction of skill-building programmes in our educational institutions. Focusing on academics is important but skill development can help students learn more about themselves, open up new opportunities for professional growth, and allow them to better adapt to the ever-changing demands of the job market.

The digital shift, accelerated by the Covid pandemic, provides young people with new opportunities and jobs. Digital skills are in high demand nowadays but there is also a need for emphasis on the teaching of manual skills such as crocheting, painting, sculpting, and pottery. It is an observable fact that due to the economic woes of our country, individuals with previously prosperous careers are having a tough time presently. There are still a plethora of opportunities available and awareness ought to be raised about them along with the implementation of skill-development programmes.

Rabia Qadeer

Rawalpindi