Professor Ali Pantami has re-emphasised the importance of soft skills over academic qualifications to prosper in any career, urging the government to incorporate these skills into the curriculum.
speaking at a graduation ceremony Al-Ansar Comprehensive Education Center At the (ACCE) in Abuja he referenced the Quran regarding the importance of knowledge and skills acquisition.
Pantami said a successful career depends on individual perceptions and preferences. He said some people chase material gains while others prefer to focus on their passion.
The former Communications Minister highlighted the importance of social skills, also called human or life skills, in the 21st century and the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
According to him, these skills guide individuals to interact and communicate with others, both verbally and non-verbally, to win their hearts or earn their respect.
Pantami said in the contemporary world with technological advancement, media influence, cultural shifts and modernisation, the lessons taught by Prophet Muhammad include social skills, which are more important than technical skills.
He cited the example of Harry Ford, founder of the Ford Motor Company, who rejected a job applicant not because of his technical skills, but because of his lack of respect and appreciation for waiters during a dinner interview.
Pantami encouraged students and graduates to acquire five important social skills: empathy, tolerance, patience, generosity, conflict resolution, and good body language such as smiling.
Dr. Mohammed Dikwa, founder of Al-Ansar University and ACCE, thanked Pantami for accepting the invitation to serve as a guest speaker on the topic of “The Qur’an and Social Skills in the Contemporary World” for “a very successful career.”
Dikwa described the professor as a distinguished Islamic scholar and cyber security expert, renowned for his tireless advocacy for a skills-based nation.
“His exceptional expertise and profound understanding of the relationship between faith and modernity make him an invaluable asset to our academic community,” he said.
“Through his lecture, Professor Pantami has highlighted the importance of social skills in achieving success and making meaningful change in the world.
“His insights have resonated deeply with our audience, and we are confident that his message will continue to inspire and encourage our students to strive for greatness,” the educationist said.
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