3 Reasons Why Skill Is More Important Than Degree
In a world where traditional educational paths have been the norm for decades, there’s a growing recognition that skills often outweigh degrees in many aspects of life. While a degree can provide a solid foundation of knowledge, it doesn’t always guarantee success or competence. And here is what I learnt from Shradha Khapra, Co-Founder of Apna College. As the first engineer of her village, she got a job in Microsoft which she later left to teach students.
1. Living in the real world
One of the most significant arguments in favor of skill over a degree is the real-world relevance of acquired abilities. In today’s rapidly changing job market, industries evolve at breakneck speeds, rendering some degree programs obsolete by the time graduates enter the workforce. Skills, on the other hand, can be continually updated and tailored to match the current demands of the job market.
In the dynamic technology sector, which is constantly evolving, a computer science degree can offer a solid foundation, but it doesn’t guarantee proficiency with the latest technologies. Employers often prefer candidates who possess hands-on experience and skills in using specific tools or languages, even if they don’t have a related degree.
2. Cost and time
A degree takes time and requires significant financial investment. Not everyone can afford the same. In contrast, developing skills can often be a more cost-effective and time-efficient way to enter the job market or advance in a career. Online courses, workshops, and bootcamps offer a range of opportunities to acquire specific skills quickly and affordably. These programs focus on practical, hands-on training, allowing learners to acquire relevant skills in a fraction of the time and cost required for a traditional degree.
Many employers are receptive to candidates who have completed such programs, as they demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and a readiness to tackle real-world challenges.
3. Various opportunities
In today’s job market, individuals are recognized and rewarded based on their abilities and contributions rather than their formal qualifications. This shift is breaking down traditional barriers and allowing people from diverse backgrounds and experiences to succeed.
Skills-based hiring practices promote diversity and inclusivity. They allow individuals who may not have had the opportunity to pursue higher education due to financial, personal, or other reasons to demonstrate their capabilities and excel in their chosen fields. This leads to a richer pool of talent and fosters innovation and creativity in various industries.
Furthermore, skills can be a great equalizer, as they are not bound by age, gender, or other demographic factors. Regardless of your background, if you possess the necessary skills and can demonstrate your abilities, you can compete on an equal footing with others in the job market.
Skills do not mean only professional skills. There are soft skills too — such as communication, leadership, problem solving that are crucial for success in the real world. And these skills are developed within oneself; no degree can teach you that. This doesn’t mean that those who go for higher studies are wasting their time, it just means that they have the means to do so. But someone without those degrees may be equally or more efficient in dealing with a problem. So, whether you’re a recent graduate or someone considering a career change, remember that skills can often be your greatest asset on the journey to success.
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