By Johnson Adebowale
The Project Management Institute (PMI) has emphasized the necessity for not only technical skills but also a continuous commitment to lifelong learning and adaptability in the evolving landscape of work. The future of work, accelerated by the coronavirus pandemic, demands a unique blend of abilities to navigate new challenges effectively.
The rapid shift to remote work, although facilitated by existing technologies, was thrust into the mainstream by the global pandemic. The shift forced employers and employees to adapt to working from home on an unprecedented scale, effectively making remote work a staple of modern professional life.
A PMI report highlighted that the nature of work has evolved to require nearly everyone to interact with the three ‘As’: automation, algorithms, and AI. George Asamani, managing director of PMI sub-Saharan Africa, said recently: “This transformative era, driven by technological advancements and shifting societal demands, necessitates re-evaluating the skills required to thrive professionally. The future of work requires not only technical skills but also an enduring commitment to lifelong learning and adaptability.”
Asamani stressed the importance of developing robust skills that can withstand the rapid pace of change. “At PMI, we recognize 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,” he said.
Traditional education, according to Asamani, needs the equivalent of booster shots 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 upskilling and reskilling. In this context, project management skills are particularly valuable as they are applicable across industries and career stages.”
Effective communication, risk management, resource management, and leadership are among the skills Asamani pointed out as crucial for successful collaboration and project delivery in any field. These skills also foster a proactive mindset, essential for tackling unforeseen challenges in today’s volatile professional environments.
Certifications such as the Certified Associate in Project Management equip individuals with the essential skills to meet the evolving demands of various industries, effectively preparing them for the modern workplace. Embracing the certification pathway can significantly enhance a professional’s ability to advance and adapt, making them invaluable in a workforce shifting from jobs to tasks.
“The future of work may be uncertain, but the path to preparing for it is clear. It lies in cultivating a culture of continuous learning and equipping youth with versatile skills. By doing so, we not only enhance their prospects for a successful career but also ensure 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 also about being proactive in one’s career development, ready to seize opportunities in emerging fields such as green energy, gaming, and technology,” Asamani added.
Corporate investment in the learning and development of staff and deserving university students is crucial. Allocating a portion of budgets to support certification pathways fosters a skilled workforce that aligns with modern industry demands. This investment in education would fill current skills gaps and drive future economic growth by developing a well-prepared labor force.
Investing in youth learning and development addresses skills gaps and contributes to peace and development by mitigating youth underemployment and unemployment—factors that can lead to instability if unmanaged. This approach aligns closely with this year’s World Youth Skills Day theme, underscoring the critical role of skills development in fostering societal stability and economic growth in Africa.
“As we look forward, let’s commit to reimagining our educational and professional training models to align with the realities of the 21st century. Let’s invest in our youth, empowering them with the tools and mindsets to navigate and shape the future. In this endeavour, the principles of project management and the pursuit of lifelong learning are not just beneficial but essential,” Asamani concluded.