There is no doubt that graduating from university anywhere in the world is not a small feat but a major milestone.

However, securing a job in today’s competitive labour market, especially in a country like Nigeria, requires more than just a degree as employers now look for graduates who possess practical skills that can add value to their organisations from day one.

The workplace in today’s world is shaped by technology, globalization, and evolving business needs.

As a result, graduates must develop skills that go beyond academic knowledge to remain relevant and employable.

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In this article, Tribune Online takes a look at five essential skills every graduate should have in today’s job market.

1. Digital literacy

The world has no doubt become a global village, and as a graduate, you cannot afford to be left behind. In almost every sector today, technology is at the centre of operations. From using productivity tools and managing data to adapting to emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, digital literacy is a must-have for graduates.

Graduates who are familiar with digital platforms, social media, and online collaboration tools often stand out during recruitment. Being digitally literate also means being able to learn new software quickly, a trait employers value highly.

2. Communication skills

This is an important skill not just for graduates but for everyone. The importance of communication in navigating all aspects of life cannot be overemphasised. It remains one of the strongest predictors of workplace success.

As a graduate, you must be able to express your ideas effectively, both in writing and in speech. Good communication fosters teamwork, leadership, and strong professional relationships.

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3. Critical thinking and problem-solving

Life is not a bed of roses, and there will always be challenges that require critical thinking to resolve. Employers want graduates who can analyse situations, think logically, and propose solutions rather than simply follow instructions.

In organisations, unexpected challenges arise frequently, and individuals who can make sound decisions under pressure are highly valued. Critical thinking also helps graduates evaluate information and avoid bias.

4. Adaptability and flexibility

If there is one lesson COVID-19 taught us, it is that nothing is certain. The pandemic proved how quickly industries can change. From remote work to automation, graduates must be adaptable to remain employable.

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Adaptability means being open to new ideas, adjusting to different work environments, and learning new skills as industries evolve. Employers also value flexibility in graduates who can handle multiple roles or shift priorities as needed. Being adaptable often signals resilience, a quality highly sought after in uncertain job markets.

5. Emotional intelligence

While technical know-how is undoubtedly important, emotional intelligence is what often sets successful graduates apart. Emotional intelligence involves self-awareness, empathy, and the ability to manage relationships.

In workplaces where collaboration is key, graduates with strong emotional intelligence can work well with diverse teams, resolve conflicts, and even take on leadership roles earlier in their careers.
(TRIBUNE)

The idea of starting a business is exciting; it’s your chance to turn an idea into something real. But let’s be honest, it can also feel scary.

From money problems to finding your first customers, challenges will definitely come your way. But the good news is, if you take things step by step, you can grow steadily.

Here are 7 simple steps to help you figure out how to start your small business:

1. Begin with an idea you believe in

Every venture, business or not, starts with an idea. It doesn’t have to be glamorous, just something valuable to people, one you have some faith in. You can ask questions like, “Does this solve a problem?” “Will people find it useful?”

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2. Do some research

Before you begin anything, find out more about your idea, your market, and potential operations. Who will buy from you? Who is selling something similar? Research can get overwhelming, so stay focused.

3. Write a simple plan

A simple plan? Yes. Don’t bother yourself with confusing techniques and long documents. Simply have a short plan with your goals, budget, target customers, and means of reaching them.

This plan will be a guide when things get overwhelming and confusing.

4. Make smart money decisions

One of the biggest struggles for small businesses is running out of money. Start small, avoid unnecessary spending, and separate business from personal money. Even if you don’t have much, discipline matters.

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5. Start small

It can be quite tempting to want to rush and be big overnight. Don’t fall prey. Instead, you can first test your product or service with a few people, listen to feedback, and improve. E.g., a small bakery testing cakes and pastries with friends and neighbours.

Small mistakes are easier (and cheaper) to fix than the huge ones that might get hard to rectify.

6. Choose people over sales

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Your first customers are special. Treat them well, ask what they think, and encourage them to tell others. When you build relationships, you build trust, and trust brings more customers.

7. Stay open-minded
Business will not always go as planned. Sales may drop, or new competitors may show up. Be flexible, make changes when needed, and keep learning from others and from your own mistakes.

In Conclusion, starting a small business takes courage and patience. Some days will be hard, but don’t lose sight of your “why.” Every big company you see today once started small. Focus on small progress every day, and your idea could grow into something much bigger than you imagined.

Grade A Customary Court 2 sitting at Mapo, Ibadan, Oyo State, has dissolved the 13-year-old wedlock between a couple, Adisa and Falilat, on the grounds of no love, irresponsibility, drunkenness and keeping of late nights by the latter.

Adisa stated that Falilat became wild and uncontrollable after she joined the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC).

Adisa explained that Falilat hardly slept at home and on the few occasions she did, she always denied him s3x.

According to the plaintiff, the last time he and the defendant had s3x was almost two years ago.

He added that their children always looked haggard and unkempt because she seldom cooks for them nor gave attention to their appearance.

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Adisa said he could no longer stomach Falilat’s excesses and therefore prayed that their union be dissolved.

Falilat refused to come to court in spite of being served court summonses.

Adisa in his evidence said, My wife and I got married 13 years ago although I did not pay her bride price.

“The once intimate and steady relationship between my wife and I has turned sour and degenerated because of her rebellious nature.

“She has made life unbearable for me ever since she joined the OPC. Falilat is now wild and uncontrollable.

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“She refuses to take instructions from me and dares that I do my worst any time we have a misunderstanding.

“My wife has completely abandoned her duties at home.

“She neither cooks for our children nor ensures that they appear neat. They look haggard and unkempt all the time.

“Falilat hardly sleeps at home. On the few occasions she did, she would return home in the middle of the night drunk and disturbing the neighbourhood.

“She has turned me into a source of ridicule in our compound and neighbourhood.

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“Falilat denies me my conjugal right. The last time we had sex was almost two years ago.

“My lord, I am better off without a wife than have Falilat under my roof.

“I pray the court to stop our relationship so that I can have peace of mind.”

The court president, Mrs O.E Qwoseni, while giving her judgment stated that there was no marriage to be dissolved because no customary marriage was carried out and the bride price was not paid.

Owoseni added that the defendant was given ample opportunity to defend herself but that she failed to make use of the opportunity.

According to her, the evidence of the plaintiff was deemed admitted.

Ruling, Owoseni dissolved their union.