Get skills, not just university degrees – Pantami says as he unveils new book

The Honourable Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami has unveiled a book titled, “Skills Rather Than Just Degrees” in Abuja on Thursday.

The Minister also launched Federal Government approved unlimited broadband connections in 18 selected universities across the 6 political zones and also in 20 markets across the country.

The book which forward was written by President of Microsoft Corporation and US Attorney, Brad Smith promotes skill acquisitions among Nigerian youths, undergraduates and graduates alike to match global job needs.

Pantami, in his remarks, noted that there should be a sharp shift of priority and focus from certificates (degrees) to skills but he was not, in anyway, discouraging going to school or educational qualifications as he is a product of degrees and certifications from best schools in the world.

He emphasized that the essence of going to university should be for skills and training rather than focusing on degree or certificate, saying that soft skills are being required today all over the world.

In his speech, the Minister said in part, “I am very delighted to unveil my latest book and launch a number of our initiatives aimed at expanding broadband connectivity across Nigeria. Broadband connectivity and access are central to the expansion of our National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) for a Digital Nigeria and are in alignment with the the mandates of His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, on job creation and economic diversification.

“I am pleased to unveil my latest book, titled “Skills Rather Than Just Degrees.” The book focuses on the importance of unemployability, unemployment and underemployment. I am passionate about the importance of skills and have been speaking about this at many events. This book is a research and product of work implementing the paradigm shift that I am advocating.”

The event which took place at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja attracted dignitaries from all works of life including heads of agencies under his ministerial supervision, Vice Chancellor of different universities, Executive Secretaries of Commissions, Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, and FCT Minister among others.