An Assessment of the Impact of New Media Technologies on Skill Acquisition and Development Among Youths in Delta State Akaeze Augustine Anyasi C. and Dr Charles Eze
Abstract
With the internet within the reach of all, any aspiring youth can easily gather valuable skills and knowledge from various existing digital sources. New media platforms offer a wealth of information on business strategies, market trends and industry innovations, allowing youths to improve on knowledge and skills needed in a world largely driven by computer technology This study showed that new media technologies have exposed youths to digital based interactive learning applications and other online media platforms. These tools provide accessible alternatives to youth to learn new skills, helping them to develop themselves. The study discovered that new media provide cost-effective digital tools that engender skills acquisition and personal development among youths. Results showed that youths are gradually leveraging on these new media technologies to empower themselves by way of skills acquisition and personal development. Online/internet content creation, online marketing, crypto currency/forex trading, AI application, etc, are some aspects youths can explore for personal development.. Notwithstanding the massive opportunities new media technologies offers, study equally found out that a large section of the youth population only use new media platforms for mainly entertainment and socializing. The study concluded that as youths navigate through the complexities of modern society, digital tools made possible by new media technologies have proven efficient for youths in accessing new opportunities, thereby enhancing their quality lives. It is therefore recommended that youths should fully embrace these new opportunities while the government and other critical stakeholders in development should design deliberate polices and programmes that will make new media technologies available to all youths.
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