Want to know about top digital skills for undergraduates in Nigeria? You probably have witnessed firsthand the struggles of university students grappling with financial burdens. It could have been yourself, or someone close to you. Good news! A seismic shift has taken place, and a rapid evolution of technology has revolutionized the way students navigate their financial lives.
With the rise of freelance work, online tutoring, and digital entrepreneurship, students are now empowered to earn a steady income, build a personal brand, and even start their own businesses – all while pursuing their academic goals. Reasonably, today’s students should be more financially stable than their predecessors who didn’t have the luxury of living during the current tech revolution.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 digital skills that are empowering students to take charge of their finances. From web development to social media management, we’ll examine how to get started, and expertise recommendations from leading career mentors.
Web Development
Web development is a highly sought-after skill in today’s digital age. Learn HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks like React or Angular to build dynamic websites and applications.
How to get started
Start with online resources like Codecademy, FreeCodeCamp, or Coursera to learn HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Build small projects and contribute to open-source platforms like GitHub.
Also, focus on building a strong foundation in web development fundamentals. Learn about responsive design, user experience, and version control systems like Git.
Digital Marketing
Understand the fundamentals of digital marketing, including SEO, social media marketing, email marketing, and Google Analytics. Help businesses grow their online presence and earn a decent income.
How to get started
Learn about SEO, social media marketing, and Google Analytics through online courses like HubSpot Academy or SkillShop (formerly Google Digital Garage). Practice by creating social media content and analyzing website traffic.
Also, develop a comprehensive understanding of digital marketing channels and metrics. Stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.
Graphic Design
Develop your creative skills in graphic design using tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Canva. Offer services like logo design, brochure creation, and social media graphics. This is one of the most lucrative digital skills for undergraduates in Nigeria.
How to get started
Familiarize yourself with design software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or Canva. Take online courses or watch tutorials to improve your skills.
Also, focus on building a strong portfolio that showcases your creativity and design skills. Learn about design principles, typography, and colour theory.
Content Writing
Improve your writing skills and create engaging content for businesses and websites. Learn about copywriting, blogging, and article writing to monetize your writing skills.
How to get started
Develop your writing skills by reading books, articles, and blogs. Practice writing on platforms like Medium or WordPress.
As a budding content writer, focus on building a strong writing portfolio that showcases your expertise and versatility. Learn about content marketing, SEO, and copywriting.
Social Media Management
Help small businesses manage their social media presence, create content, and engage with their audience. Learn about social media advertising and analytics to offer comprehensive services.
How to get started
Learn about social media marketing, content creation, and analytics through online courses or certifications like Hootsuite or Sprout Social.
Also, develop a comprehensive understanding of social media platforms and their respective algorithms. Learn about content creation, engagement, and crisis management.
Video Editing as a Digital Skill
Develop your video editing skills using software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve. Offer services like video production, editing, and animation.
How to get started
Familiarize yourself with video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve. Take online courses or watch tutorials to improve your skills.
Also, focus on building a strong portfolio that showcases your video editing skills and creativity. Learn about storytelling, pacing, and visual effects.
Photography as a Digital Skill
Improve your photography skills and offer services like event photography, portrait photography, and product photography. Learn about editing software like Lightroom and Photoshop.
How to get started
Learn tools like Excel, Python, or Tableau through online courses or certifications like Coursera or edX.
Also, develop a strong foundation in data analysis fundamentals. Learn about statistics, data visualization, and machine learning.
Data Analysis
Learn tools like Excel, Python, and Tableau to analyze data and help businesses make informed decisions. Offer services like data visualization, statistical analysis, and market research.
How to get started
Learn tools like Excel, Python, or Tableau through online courses or certifications like Coursera or edX.
Also, develop a strong foundation in data analysis fundamentals. Learn about statistics, data visualization, and machine learning.
Virtual Assistance
Offer virtual assistant services like email management, scheduling, and data entry. Learn about tools like Trello, Asana, and Google Suite to streamline workflows.
How to get started
Learn about virtual assistance tools like Trello, Asana, or Google Suite. Practice by offering services to friends or family.
Also, focus on building strong organizational and communication skills. Learn about task management, email marketing, and customer service.
Online Tutoring
If you excel in a particular subject, offer online tutoring services to students. Use platforms like Zoom, Skype, or Google Meet for sessions and get paid for your expertise.
How to get started
Identify your area of expertise and create a profile on online tutoring platforms like TutorMe or Chegg. If you can’t affordable the luxury of these premium platforms, you can also make videos with your mobile phone and upload on a Telegram channel where you can direct your students to.
Also, develop a strong understanding of your subject matter and teaching skills. Learn about online tutoring platforms and best practices.
What next?
Remember, mastering these digital skills takes time and practice. To truly thrive in this new landscape, students must also focus on becoming professionals in their own right. This means building a robust work portfolio and CV, showcasing their skills and experience to potential employers and clients. It means cultivating a network and circle of influence, connecting with industry leaders and like-minded individuals who can offer guidance, support, and opportunities around mastering digital skills.
And, of course, it means being proactive in seeking out job and gig opportunities, submitting applications and pitching for work with confidence and conviction. By taking these steps, students can turn their skills and passions into a fulfilling and lucrative career, and join the ranks of the financially stable and successful. The world of work is changing, and with the right mindset and strategy, you can change with it.
