Talent Development Programme to Bridge Communications Skills’ Gap

The communication industry is facing a critical skills shortage, despite growing demand for high-impact campaigns to reach- dynamic audience. 

Lead Consultant at Blanche Aigle Communications, Nene Bejide, declared that widening skills gap poses a significant challenge for industry growth and competitiveness, just as the taste and expectations of clients and consumers are constantly shifting. 

More worrisome, according to Bejide, is the disconnect among young media and public relations graduates who struggle to balance academic learning with real-world demands. 

Quoting the report, the public relations professional stated that despite 600,000 graduates being churned out yearly, the unemployment rate among degree holders continues to rise, while youth unemployment rate for post-secondary graduates stood at 9 percent as of Q1 2024.

She urged prioritising Investment in training and development programmes, noting that Blanche Aigle is spearheading effort in this regard with its forthcoming Talent Development Program in June, 2025.

“We shall be offering a six-week immersive training to recent graduates towards bridging gap between classroom theory and industry demands. This initiative supports skills training for youth in Africa, helping graduates transition smoothly into roles within public relations, media, and digital marketing.

“This program is our way of building a pipeline of future-ready professionals. We are not just offering internships, we are offering access, training, and the kind of mentorship that can change the course of a young graduate’s career. We believe in creating room for talent, and that starts by giving them the right tools and opportunities to grow,” she informed. 

She advised young ones in the field to key into the opportunity, adding that participants will be privileged to engage in live client projects across key focus areas, in addition to mentorship opportunity from senior professionals. 

“They will also gain technical knowledge and career insights, and upon completion, receive a certificate of completion, while top candidates may secure a 3-6-month internship slot with us,” she said.