YABATECH Urges Youths to Embrace Digital, Technical Skills, Create Opportunities

The acting Director of Yaba College of Technology's Centre for Information Communication and Public Relations, Adekunle Adams, has called on Nigerian youths to continuously develop relevant digital and technical skills to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving economy. At the Catalyst Shift 1.0 event, hosted by the Ayo Lawal Empowerment Foundation, Adams stressed that young Nigerians should not only seek employment but also learn how to create value, solve problems, and generate opportunities for others.

He emphasized that technological advancements, AI, automation, digital platforms and changing workplace demands necessitate continuous learning for the younger generation.

Adams asserted that while university degrees and professional qualifications remain crucial, they should not signal the end of a young person's learning journey. He encouraged youths to regularly reflect on what they are learning to enhance their value in the future. Competence alone does not guarantee success, according to Adams; character is equally important in determining what happens after securing opportunities.

He urged young Nigerians to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset by asking themselves what problems they can solve, what value they can create, and what services they can provide.

The college's empowerment initiatives, according to Adams, include entrepreneurship programmes, innovation challenges, digital training, technical skills acquisition, industrial training, mentorship, and industry engagement. The objective is to move students from mere knowledge acquisition to practical application, equipping them not only to seek employment but also to create opportunities.

He highlighted that digital empowerment should extend beyond certificates, as digital skills can provide pathways to employment, entrepreneurship, and participation in the digital economy. However, Adams cautioned against viewing technology as a replacement for critical thinking and sound judgment.

Adams emphasized the importance of technical and vocational skills, noting that Nigeria requires skilled technicians, engineers, fabricators, designers, builders, artisans, manufacturers, and technical entrepreneurs. He stressed the need for students to engage with professionals in their desired fields, understand employer expectations, and gain practical exposure through mentorship.

On leadership, Adams stressed that it is not about titles or positions but rather responsibility, service, accountability, and influence. He encouraged young people to demonstrate leadership by solving problems, supporting others, executing responsibilities with excellence, mentoring their peers, and maintaining integrity. He also highlighted effective communication as a critical leadership skill, urging young people to communicate thoughtfully, listen actively, and ensure their words are truthful, necessary, respectful, and constructive.

Adams cautioned against waiting for perfect conditions to pursue one's goals, urging youths to start with available resources, volunteer, build relationships, develop skills, and offer solutions. He stressed that relationships are important, but young people should prioritize the value they bring to their networks rather than merely seeking influential connections.

Regarding impact, Adams advised measuring success not only by what one accumulates but also by the positive difference made in others' lives. He commended the foundation for its role in mentorship, leadership development, and youth empowerment, urging stronger collaboration among education, industry, entrepreneurship, technology, and community development.

Adams encouraged participants to embrace the Catalyst Shift message by continuously learning, leading through responsibility, and creating impact by solving problems and helping others.