In a landscape where job opportunities dwindle and education alone falls short, developing practical skills emerges as the key to self-reliance, dignity, and long-term success for the youth
We are all well aware of the current scenario of unemployment in Kashmir, as well as the rest of India. There is a huge number of job seekers holding higher educational degrees in their hands or dossiers. Some people hold the government responsible for not providing an adequate number of jobs to the unemployed youth, while others blame educational institutions for failing to provide students with sufficient know-how about the future challenges and employment prospects associated with their chosen streams. Some attribute their miseries to luck or fate, especially in terms of securing a source of livelihood.
While these circumstances have created chaos and disappointment among job seekers, even those currently pursuing their studies are left confused and uncertain about choosing a viable source of livelihood in the future. This is largely because there appears to be little hope or clear scope for a regular and satisfactory source of income, even after completing either academic or professional degrees. The number of educated youth is increasing at an overwhelming rate each day, and it is not feasible for the government to accommodate everyone in government departments.
Furthermore, the level of industrialisation in Kashmir is insufficient to allow the youth to turn towards the private sector for employment.
Those who have already completed their studies and are seeking or preparing for government jobs are somehow managing to survive by taking up temporary or alternative work. The real concern lies with the youth still engaged in their studies—full of hope and expectations from their chosen subjects or streams. The crucial question remains: what lies ahead for them in terms of earning a living?
As far as our education system is concerned, we are made to follow rules and regulations blindly, without being informed of the scope or future relevance of the subjects we study. We are simply asked to memorise facts and figures and maintain notebooks throughout the year. In the end, we receive a marks sheet, which allows us to move to the next class. When it comes to degrees or diplomas, a piece of paper is issued certifying that so-and-so has satisfactorily completed the course, and that is it.
That student often has no knowledge or clear idea of what to do with this certificate or how to make a livelihood out of it.
It is clear that, although knowledge is of crucial importance in today’s world more than ever before, mere knowledge of facts and figures does not guarantee a livelihood unless a person also gains technical, hands-on experience or skill in something tangible.
The only thing that currently assures a source of income for a person is possessing a well-developed skill or technical ability. If a person gains a skill that fulfils the needs of others or makes their lives easier, that becomes a gateway to livelihood opportunities. The most important thing about acquiring a skill is that one does not need high qualifications or degrees to learn it. Even a matriculate or 10+2 qualified individual can do wonders if they show dedication and passion towards a particular skill or vocation.
A skilled person has the ability to face financial challenges and support their family as well. Moreover, a well-skilled individual can teach others the same skill, empowering friends and family members to become self-reliant. Above all, skilled persons can generate employment for others, creating avenues for financial independence in their communities.
Having a skill not only ensures financial freedom but also preserves a person’s self-respect, which ultimately builds their reputation in society. On the other hand, no matter how high one’s income might be in a government or private job, there often exists a lack of autonomy and self-worth. Being an independent, self-employed individual with modest earnings is far better than working in any sector with a high salary but no independence.
A self-employed person enjoys the freedom to act according to their will, without seeking permission from seniors or superiors. In contrast, an employee must follow the instructions of a boss and abide by time schedules laid down by their organisation. They require approval for even personal activities.
Being self-employed is a source of mental peace and prosperity because of the autonomy it provides. A job, by contrast, lacks these privileges; employees cannot act freely and are often burdened with time constraints. This can severely affect their ability to maintain personal, family, and social relationships. A self-employed individual, being master of their own time, can easily attend family functions, spend quality time with friends, and take part in social gatherings. In fact, their relationships may grow stronger, which in turn may help their business flourish through expanded social networks and increased community respect.
Finally, I urge all job seekers, especially the youth still pursuing their studies, to learn a skill or gain technical expertise alongside their education. Do not place all your hopes and expectations solely on government or private sector jobs. Doing so may lead to deep disappointment and regret, as experienced by many current job seekers and even employed individuals who feel trapped in undesirable circumstances.
Although many are trying hard to escape this predicament, once a person falls into this trap, it becomes extremely difficult to get out. Let skill be your weapon of independence, dignity, and sustainability.
Mohammad Imran Reshi
re***********@***il.com