Unilever Pakistan, in partnership with Express Media Group, recently hosted an engaging session titled Essential Skills for the New Age at Habib University, aiming to equip students with the critical competencies required for success in today’s fast-evolving digital landscape. The event brought together leading industry experts who shared valuable insights on professional development, problem-solving, and adapting to modern workforce challenges.
The session featured a panel of distinguished speakers, including Ammar Hassan, Founder and CEO of Bypass; Javed Jafri, Media, Digital, and Data Lead at Unilever; and Faisal Sheikh, Co-founder and CCO of Jack of Digital. These experts provided students with practical advice on navigating the complexities of the professional world, emphasizing the importance of self-improvement, strategic thinking, and lifelong learning.
Ammar Hassan highlighted the need for self-confidence and effective communication, encouraging students to embrace self-learning and engage with thought leaders in their fields. He stressed that specialization in a particular area of interest is key to standing out in competitive industries. Javed Jafri reinforced the significance of critical thinking and problem-solving, advising students to hone their analytical skills to tackle real-world challenges. He also underscored the importance of social skills, noting that personal interactions play a crucial role in professional success.
Faisal Sheikh emphasized the role of progressive learning and mentorship in career growth, urging students to make career choices based on their skills rather than solely on their academic degrees. He pointed out that while the internet provides an abundance of information, the ability to think critically and make meaningful connections is what truly sets individuals apart in the modern job market.
Maryam, Talent, Learning, and Organisation Manager at Unilever, spoke about the company’s Reimagine Talent Generation for Pakistan campaign, which aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry. She explained that the initiative is focused on developing both personal and professional competencies among students to better prepare them for corporate careers and entrepreneurship. As part of this initiative, Unilever plans to host five similar sessions across different universities, equipping students with skills that align with industry demands.
Express Media Group’s Executive Director, Azfar Nizami, emphasized the importance of aligning one’s education with future career goals. He highlighted Express Media’s vast reach of 40 million users as a platform that can play a pivotal role in spreading awareness about the essential skills required in today’s job market. The session was well received by students, who regarded it as a valuable opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge from industry leaders. Many attendees appreciated the initiative by Unilever and Express Media Group, recognizing it as a crucial step in preparing them for the challenges of an increasingly dynamic world.
With the successful conclusion of the first session, the initiative holds great promise for inspiring and empowering students across Pakistan. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and skill development, Unilever and Express Media Group are actively contributing to shaping a more capable and future-ready workforce.
