The former Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, has addressed concerns about Artificial Intelligence (AI) potentially displacing millions of jobs, emphasising the importance of skill acquisition in mastering modern tools as a solution.

Pantami expressed his views while receiving participants in the PRNigeria Young Communication Fellowship at his office. He underscored that mentorship programs focused on skill development can enhance career growth, improve problem-solving abilities, and expand professional networks.

“In the coming years, millions may face job loss as AI assumes various roles,” he noted.

“However, it’s crucial to understand that it will not be AI itself causing this job loss, but individuals adept at utilizing AI technologies. AI is ultimately a product of human ingenuity; it does not operate or evolve independently.”

While mindful of fear of technology often described as allayed Technophobia, Pantami highlighted that one of the defining characteristics of the Fourth Industrial Revolution is that expertise in technology does not necessitate formal education in computer science. “Similarly, you don’t need a degree in Mass Communication to become an award-winning journalist or an accomplished public relations professional. This revolution is centered around personal development and continuous learning.”

Pantami emphasized that mentorship can transform lives, even through brief interactions, and encouraged younger individuals to seek guidance from their elders.

“Mentorship bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical skills,” he said. “Education lays the groundwork, but applying theoretical knowledge requires hands-on experience.”

He explained that while university education provides essential theoretical frameworks, practical skills are often cultivated in the private sector. “I have consistently emphasized that practical skills—not just degrees—drive success.”

Continuing, Pantami stressed the importance of continuous training and personal development in today’s fast-paced environment. “You need essential skills, including social abilities rooted in empathy, emotional intelligence, and communication, as well as digital skills such as AI, programming, and critical thinking. Staying updated with industry trends and technologies is imperative.

“I commend all of you for pursuing the PRNigeria Young Communication Mentorship Programme following your university graduation. While degrees are valuable, skills are equally important. Pursue formal education, but prioritize practical experience and continuous learning for success.”

He reiterated that digital skills and understanding AI are crucial for remaining relevant, given the expected job displacement caused by these technologies. “There is a need for constant learning and retraining to stay competitive in the job market.”

Mr. Yushau Shuaib, Chief Executive Officer of Image Merchants Promotion Limited, praised Pantami for accommodating the fellowship on short notice and for providing copies of his latest book, “Skills Rather than Just Degrees,” to the participants.

Shuaib noted that the PRNigeria Young Communication Fellowship was designed to broaden participants’ knowledge across various communication aspects. He explained that the fellowship focuses on modern communication methods, emerging technologies, and multimedia sessions.

“The fellowship explores strategic communication and social media engagement while incorporating AI and machine learning to enhance communication. Additionally, we include multimedia sessions to address the transition from print to audiovisual communication.”

He added that the fellowship which is hosted at PRNigeria Centres in Abuja, Ilorin and Kano provides a platform for participants to connect with industry professionals through organized sessions at media houses and PR departments, facilitating hands-on experience and practical learning opportunities.

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TECH DIGEST- The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy,  Professor Isa Ali Pantami, has said that Nigeria’s problem is not unemployment but a lack of employability among the youth populace.

He therefore suggested that school curricula should be reviewed and that students be mentored on how to become successful entrepreneurs.

READALSO: Pantami calls for creation of Ministry of Digital Economy across states

The Minister said this while inaugurating a computer-based test (CBT) center at Achievers University in Owo, Ondo State, which was named after him.

The inauguration was part of events marking the university’s 15th anniversary and 12th convocation.

In his convocation lecture, the Minister counseled students to focus on developing the skills that would last them a lifetime.

The minister said:  ”Digital innovation and digital entrepreneurship aim to solve an existing problem and provide job  opportunities for mankind. It is worth noting that any society that lacks innovation and entrepreneurial skills will have to contend with the challenge of unemployment. In an economy with a high number of unemployed youths and where finding jobs is very challenging, a lot needs to be done in the area of education to reverse the trend.”

The minister emphasised that  every day, the qualifications for employment openings change, adding that problem-solving skills are now in demand as against certificates.

Dr. Bode Ayorinde, the university’s provost and chairman of the governing council, also spoke at the lecture. He expressed happiness that the institution has made significant progress over the previous 15 years and promised that it would continue to produce the best work that would benefit society.

According to the Provost, the new structure is necessary because it will house a CBT center for students taking the general studies, nursing, and medical laboratory science professional tests.

Dr. Ayorinde thanked the Minister for giving the convocation lecture, noting that it would greatly advance the students’ and graduates’ education and help them develop into better people in the future.

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