By Jumoke Olaitan
The President of the Africa School of Strategic Thinking, Dr Abdul Kokori, has urged graduating students to prioritise skill acquisition, describing practical skills as essential for success in the 21st century.
Kokori gave the advice on Wednesday at the 2026 SS3 Graduation and Prize-Giving Ceremony of Government Science Secondary School (GSSS), Maitama, Abuja.
He said academic qualifications alone were no longer sufficient in a rapidly changing world, stressing that practical skills had become the new currency for success.
“Head knowledge alone is no longer enough for success in the 21st century. True success belongs to those who transform knowledge into practical skills.
“In today’s world, skills are the new currency of success,” he said.
Kokori urged parents to support their children’s talents and expose them to vocational and entrepreneurial skills that would make them self-reliant.
“I want to encourage parents to ensure that their children are actively engaged in developing the skills they are genuinely interested in.
“Nurture their talents, support their passions and provide opportunities for them to acquire practical skills that will prepare them for success in the future,” he said.
Similarly, Dr Chinwe Ogbuka, Treasurer of the school’s Parents-Teachers Association (PTA), urged graduating students to acquire vocational skills alongside their academic qualifications to enhance financial independence.
Ogbuka, who is also the Executive Director of De-prime Initiative for Advancement of Civil Liberty and Civic Duty, said vocational skills had become indispensable amid rising unemployment.
She said students with practical skills would be better positioned to create wealth while pursuing their careers.
“Skill acquisition is the in-thing. No matter how educated you are, it is important to have something you can do with your hands.
“You can learn hairdressing, make-up artistry, tailoring, carpentry, shoemaking, catering, cooking, manicure and pedicure. These are practical skills that can provide a source of livelihood,” she said.
She added that possessing a vocation would enable graduates to earn additional income instead of relying solely on paid employment.
“People will be looking for jobs after completing their studies, but if you already have a skill, you can start a business and earn a living while pursuing your career.
“Apart from education, which is very important, you can continue with your vocation and use it to augment whatever income you earn from paid employment,” she said.
In his remarks, the Principal of the school, Mr Isa Okuru, urged the graduating Class of 2026 to uphold integrity, resilience and good character as they pursue higher education and other endeavours.
Okuru said education went beyond acquiring certificates, stressing that the values students developed while in school would determine their success in life.
“As you leave the walls of this school, remember that education is more than the acquisition of knowledge; it is the development of character, integrity and wisdom.
“The certificates you receive today are important, but even more important are the values you have cultivated—honesty, diligence, respect, compassion and resilience.
“These values will guide you wherever life takes you,” he said.
The principal encouraged the graduates not to be discouraged by setbacks but to see them as opportunities for growth and self-improvement.
“The world you are entering is filled with opportunities and challenges. There will be moments of success and moments of difficulty.
“Do not be discouraged by setbacks. Instead, view them as opportunities to learn and grow. Believe in yourselves, work hard and never stop learning,” Okuru said.
One of the graduating students, Ize Tijani, said that beyond academics, the school had equipped her with practical skills, built her confidence and prepared her to explore opportunities in the wider society.
“The school has taught me discipline, focus and confidence. It also gave me the opportunity to acquire practical skills that I can rely on in the future,” she said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that highlights of the ceremony included the presentation of academic awards to outstanding students and recognition of the three top performers in the 2026 Post-UTME.
Other highlights included the presentation of certificates to serving prefects, cultural displays, special performances and the unveiling of the school’s 2026 yearbook. (NAN)
Edited by Funmilayo Adeyemi