Business

Why re-evaluation of skills remains critical to workplace survival — Expert

The Managing Director, Project Management Institute (PMI) Subs-Saharan Africa, George Asamani, has said that the continued transformation of the workplace, induced by technological advancements and shifting societal demands, has made a re-evaluation of skills imperative for professionals, desirous of making a success of their careers.

Asamani, who insisted that the future of work does not only require technical skills but also an enduring commitment to lifelong learning and adaptability, advised the youth, preparing for future jobs, to develop robust skills that are resilient in the face of change.

He added that, in tune with these demands, the institute has always recognised the critical need for skills that facilitate not just task execution, but also adaptability, collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

“Project management embodies these competencies, equipping individuals with the tools to manage resources, time, and people effectively.

“As industries evolve, traditional education requires an equivalent of booster shots administered for COVID-19 vaccines to stay relevant and effective. Relying solely on the skills acquired through formal education is no longer sufficient.

“Instead, the focus must shift towards a model of continuous education—one that fosters up-skilling and re-skilling. In this context, project management skills are particularly valuable as they are applicable across industries and career stages,’ Asamani added.

Some of the skills, he added, include, but not limited to, effective communication, risk management, resource management, and leadership. These, he stated, remain crucial for successful collaboration and project delivery in any field.

“Moreover, these skills encourage an inherently proactive mindset and readiness to tackle unforeseen challenges, a necessity in the volatile professional environments of today and tomorrow,” the PMI Sub-Saharan Africa boss stated.

Asamani noted that certifications equip individuals with the essential skills needed to meet the evolving demands of various industries, effectively preparing them for the modern workplace, adding that embracing this pathway can significantly enhance a professional’s ability to advance and adapt, making them invaluable in the workplace that is shifting from jobs to tasks.

He argued that while the future of work may be uncertain, but the path to preparing for it, he argued lies in cultivating a culture of continuous learning and equipping today’s youth with versatile skills.

“By doing so, we not only enhance their prospects for a successful career but also ensure that they can contribute positively to the continent’s economy.

“Lifelong learning must be embraced as a personal and professional ideology that encourages individuals to continually seek knowledge and skills that enhance their capabilities and adaptability. This approach is not just about staying relevant; it’s about being proactive in one’s career development, ready to seize opportunities in emerging fields such as green energy, gaming, and technology,” he added.

A report conducted by the PMI revealed that the evolution of work and the workplace has made it imperative for everyone to interact with the three As- Automation, Algorithms, and Artificial Intelligence (AI), with passion and purpose now a priority over paychecks.

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