Femi Akinyemi, Author at Tribune Online

Today, staying relevant in the workforce is no longer about just having a degree or experience—it’s about constant learning. The world is evolving and you don't want to have outdated knowledge, especially in data and business analytics, where AI and cybersecurity are becoming increasingly crucial. These are fields where tools, techniques, and trends evolve almost daily. Certifications have become a vital part of staying competitive and demonstrating expertise, particularly in areas like AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity, which are rapidly changing the data and business analytics landscape. They are simply no longer an add-on. The data and business analytics landscape is changing fast. With 76% of employees believing that skills are changing faster than ever before (LinkedIn Workplace Learning Report), professionals need to stay ahead of the curve. Lawal Qudus knows this firsthand. His certifications in Python, SQL, and SAP ERP have helped him bridge the gap between his academic foundation and real-world applications. But what does it really mean to be certified? It's not just about knowing how to write code in Python or analyze data with SQL. It's about mastering the nuances of these tools and applying them to real-world problems. A certification program forces professionals to dig deeper and develop a more sophisticated understanding of the tools they use. Certifications are also a way to prove your expertise. They show that you've been tested, have met specific standards, and are ready to contribute to solving real-world problems. For Qudus, his certifications have been a key differentiator, helping him streamline processes and develop automated systems, and ensure robust cybersecurity at Citi Group. The analytics field is constantly evolving, with new tools and technologies emerging every day. With the way we embrace more data-driven approaches, the role of AI in business analytics is also growing exponentially. AI enhances data processing, automates tasks, and even predicts trends, allowing professionals to make more informed decisions. However, with the rise of these technologies comes an increased need for robust cybersecurity. As businesses collect and store more sensitive data, securing this information from cyber threats is more critical than ever. It's very important to stay updated with both AI and cybersecurity certifications, this way, professionals can ensure they not only stay at the cutting edge of data analysis but also protect the integrity of the data they work with. Certifications provide a structured way to keep up with these changes, ensuring that professionals remain sharp and relevant. By staying current with the latest tools and methodologies, including AI and cybersecurity certifications, certified professionals can drive business growth, improve efficiency, and make data-driven decisions. Employers recognize the value of certifications too. According to Burning Glass Technologies, jobs requiring certifications in data analytics pay an average of 18% more than those that don't. This premium on certified professionals reflects the value they bring to organizations, from improved data analysis to more effective decision-making. For Qudus, certifications have been a key driver of growth, efficiency, and impact. They've helped him stay ahead of the curve and make a real difference in his work. Professionals can enhance their skills and knowledge, demonstrate their expertise to employers, stay current with industry trends and technologies like AI and cybersecurity, drive business growth and improvement, and increase their earning potential, by investing in more certifications. If you're looking to take your career to the next level, consider getting certified. It's a powerful way to demonstrate your expertise, stay relevant in a changing field, and achieve your goals. With the right certifications, you can unlock new opportunities, drive business success, and thrive in the data and business analytics field. ALSO READ FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE