A digital edge

A DEGREE alone does not cut it anymore — industry professionals have highlighted this time and again. Digital savviness, among other skills, has been a core competency many employers look for in young graduates. Due to Covid-19, the need to possess this skill has become increasingly vital, as the pandemic has fundamentally changed the way we work. Here are some tips students should take note of:

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"Having sufficient knowledge on how technologies and digital transformation can influence companies and the students’ role in it are crucial. This is important because the skills students demonstrate carry more weight than their academic qualifications. Additionally, the speed and ease of decision-making come from having good, clear communications and being able to work well with other teams and individuals. It is one of the key capabilities that sets human talent apart from the bots and automation. Understanding processes and not working in silo, being a lifelong learner, adaptability and resilience, and having a strong leadership attitude are also among the core skills that are in demand now. Anyone can be a leader but they must be willing to take ownership to improve processes and outcomes.

Covid-19 has shaken up the traditional ways of doing things; so looking at the bigger picture, seeking opportunities in spite of the crisis and pushing through challenges are qualities that will always be relevant."

INTI International University & Colleges chief executive officer Tan Lin Nah

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"Information and Communications Technology (ICT), Business, Finance, Health Sciences, Engineering and Psychology are some areas to look out for in the future. While there is an upward trend in local students enrolling in traditional courses, there is a need for a new set of skills.

There is more emphasis today on digital knowledge and Fourth Industrial Revolution skills. Most courses have these skills embedded into them.

This results in producing graduates who are job-ready. Aptitude in analytics, coding, entrepreneurship and essential human skills such as soft skills, communication, critical thinking, decision-making and emotional intelligence are essential. We must ensure that our students are more prepared to enter the workforce, regardless of which industry they choose."

CAREERsense@HELP director Eric Bryan Amaladas