Essential Skills Students Should Acquire to Meet Labour Market Demands

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         Deborah Adeyemi 

As the world continues to evolve alongside rapid technological advancement, the demand for practical skills in the labour market has significantly increased. A university degree alone is no longer enough to secure a good job; employers now look for students and graduates who possess additional competencies that meet real-world needs. These in-demand skills help solve problems, boost productivity, and enable students to adapt quickly to emerging trends. For students preparing for life after school, acquiring these skills early can greatly improve their chances of securing meaningful employment.

In today’s digital age, learning relevant digital skills has become crucial. One of the most valuable is digital marketing, which involves using the internet to promote goods and services through platforms like Instagram, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Google. Digital marketing allows businesses to reach a wider audience at a lower cost, making it a flexible and profitable skill that students can learn and even earn from before graduating.

Another important skill is graphic design, which uses images, colours, and layouts to communicate messages creatively. Tools like Canva and Photoshop make it easier for beginners to create flyers, logos, and banners. Graphic design is useful across nearly every industry—media, education, advertising, and more. Many companies seek skilled designers who can help make their services and brands more visually appealing to their target audience.

Furthermore, data analysis involves working with numbers and information to understand trends and make informed decisions. For instance, a business may use data to identify which product sells best or when customers are most active. Learning tools like Excel or Google Sheets is a great place to start, and students can gradually build their analytical confidence.

Similarly, UI/UX design focuses on creating websites or apps that are visually appealing and easy to use. This skill is essential because no one enjoys interacting with confusing or poorly designed digital products. With entry-level tools like Figma or Adobe XD, students can create simple designs and build a strong portfolio over time.

In addition, video and audio editing have become highly demanded skills due to the rise of social media content. Whether it’s a TikTok skit, YouTube video, or online advertisement, well-edited content captures more attention. Students can begin with tools like CapCut, Video Maker, and Lexis Audio Editor before advancing to professional software such as Adobe Premiere Pro.

Moreover, web development remains one of the most powerful digital skills today. Every business, brand, or even school project needs a website, and students who can build one using WordPress or HTML/CSS have a significant advantage. It is a practical and well-paying skill that continues to be in high demand.

Finally, content writing and copywriting involve using words to inform, educate, or persuade an audience. Whether crafting blog posts, social media captions, product descriptions, or scripts, strong writing skills help businesses connect effectively with their audience. Students passionate about writing can improve by reading widely, practicing consistently, and offering freelance writing services.

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