Telco CEO to African Students: Master AI and Technology to Secure Your Future
At the recent 2025 TEDxUniversity of Cape Coast (TEDxUCC) career fair, Leo Skarlatos, the Chief Executive Officer of leading telecommunications firm AT, issued a compelling call to action for the next generation. Addressing a packed auditorium of students, educators, and young professionals, Skarlatos stressed that proficiency in artificial intelligence (AI) and technology is now a non-negotiable asset for career longevity. Speaking on the event’s theme, “Future-Ready: Skills for a Changing World,” he provided a crucial perspective on how to thrive in an increasingly digital global economy, urging attendees to proactively adapt to new technological paradigms.
Navigating the “Silent Revolution” in the Job Market
Skarlatos painted a vivid picture of the modern workplace, describing the current shift as a “silent revolution.” He delivered a stark warning: “If you’re not learning how to work with technology, then you’re preparing to be replaced by it.” Drawing upon his leadership experience steering AT through multiple waves of digital transformation, he implored students to look beyond the confines of traditional academic degrees. He emphasized the growing importance of practical, applicable tech skills, positioning digital literacy as “the new currency” in the professional world. According to Skarlatos, this new economic reality means that the ability to collaborate with AI systems, analyze data, and leverage digital tools is more valuable than ever, fundamentally changing what it means to be a skilled employee.
The message from the AT chief resonates deeply within the burgeoning African tech ecosystem. It serves as a vital directive for students not just in Cape Coast but across the continent to prioritize continuous learning and skill acquisition in high-demand tech fields. The imperative is clear: to build future-ready careers, young professionals must embrace AI and digital tools as essential collaborators. By doing so, they can move from being passive participants in the global economy to becoming active drivers of innovation and transformation, securing their relevance and contributing to a technologically advanced future for Africa.
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