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Tag: skills

  • Adamawa Forum empowers young persons with disabilities with career, business skills

    Adamawa Forum empowers young persons with disabilities with career, business skills

    Jobberman Nigeria, a foremost career development and recruitment solutions company in Nigeria, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, successfully hosted a special career and business forum for Persons With Disabilities in Adamawa State.

    The event, themed, Empowered to Achieve More, was designed to provide job seekers and business owners (existing and aspiring) with direction on how to advance in their growth pursuits.

    Participants at the event raved on and on about the impact of the event on their plans going forward. Aminatu, an aspiring business owner with visual impairment, said she received counselling from the counsellors on how to go about her business set-up.

    “The counsellor told me that I may need to get more training on business operations and also check with Jobberman to help me get loans from a bank like the FCMB loan they mentioned,” she explained.

    Another participant, a school teacher living with albinism, expressed his deep satisfaction at how much the panel session opened his eyes to the need for compassion in dealing with people who do not have disabilities and may be unpleasant in their exchanges with him.

    “People always make fun of us and say that we cannot see anything, and I used to get very angry, but today I have learned to be patient and understanding with them, especially as a school teacher. I will be more patient with my students”

    Read Also: 300 Niger Delta youths graduate from NDDC technical skills programme

    One of the panellists, Ms Grace Dauda, a farmer and shoemaker, encouraged the attendees with her story.

    “I used to crawl to my farm to plant, and people would just look at me, some with pity, others with awe. I knew that I needed to show that I am only physically challenged and not completely helpless. That was the first step in getting people to even see my plight and help me. So, people with Disabilities should not hide or be shy. Nobody can help you if they don’t see you”

    Her story created a palpable hope in the room that the event’s objectives are indeed achievable for Persons With Disabilities.

    In her welcome speech, the Senior Consultant, the Strategy team, Jobberman Nigeria, Oladoyin Kolawole, iterated the organisation’s commitment to providing the necessary all-encompassing support for career and business advancement to jobseekers and business owners, especially Persons With Disabilities in marginalised places.

    “The Mastercard Foundation, in partnership with Jobberman Nigeria, is committed to giving not just a voice to marginalised persons such as women and Persons With Disabilities, we are also putting measures in place to create opportunities for them to dream freely and achieve those dreams, whether in a career path or in an entrepreneurial pursuit. We want them to be able to hold their own regardless of the obstacles in their paths, and this event is one of the many ways we are helping them win”

    The special career and business forum featured a comprehensive programme including a riveting panel session where the panellists shared real-life analogies, examples and anecdotes for not just surviving as a Person With Disability but thriving and forging on with the tools at one’s disposal. The session was followed by a career and business counselling session where participants had the chance to ask questions about their peculiar situations and plans.

    The transformative impact of the events was echoed in the feedback from several participants during the feedback session. A young man with a hearing impairment said the event was the first time he felt heard because nobody usually paid attention to people with disabilities like him. Another participant said they were very happy to be among their kind and to repeatedly hear that they should be bold. Others gushed about the counselling session and how great it felt to be able to speak to someone about their dreams. A young woman said she didn’t know how to prepare for an interview prior to the Forum, but had learnt to arrive on time, not loiter, come with a detailed CV, and speak boldly.

    The Adamawa Forum for Persons with Disabilities reiterated Jobberman’s position as a committed agent of positive change in the world of work, transforming upcoming and established professionals in their respective career journeys. The event was a testament to the organisation’s mission to empower Persons With Disabilities with skills and opportunities for growth in both employment and entrepreneurial endeavours.

  • Five high-income skills you can learn online for free in 2025

    Five high-income skills you can learn online for free in 2025

    As the global job market continues to evolve, traditional university degrees are no longer the only pathway to career success. In 2025, high-income skills such as video editing, digital marketing, software development, public speaking, and artificial intelligence will open up lucrative opportunities worldwide.

    What makes these skills even more attractive is that many can now be acquired online at no cost, giving young professionals and career changers the chance to build rewarding and profitable careers.

    Here are five high-income skills to learn for free in 2025 you should know:

    1. Video editing and content creation

    Video content dominates the internet, from TikTok reels to YouTube channels and corporate ads. Free tools like DaVinci Resolve and CapCut, alongside platforms like YouTube Creator Academy, teach editing, storytelling, and content strategy. With short-form video booming, skilled creators can work as freelance editors, YouTubers, or social media managers—making this one of the most in-demand careers worldwide.

    2. Digital marketing

    Businesses thrive on visibility, and digital marketing powers that growth. Free learning platforms such as Google Digital Garage, HubSpot Academy, and SEMrush Academy offer training in SEO, paid ads, content marketing, and social media strategy. Professionals who master these skills often land jobs as SEO analysts, digital consultants, or brand managers.

    3. Software development

    Every app and website is built by software developers, and free platforms like FreeCodeCamp and The Odin Project make coding accessible to beginners. From HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to Python, learners build real-world projects and portfolios on GitHub. In 2025, developers will remain in high demand across industries such as fintech, education, and healthcare.

    Read Also: NDLEA arrests 50-year-old Lagos widow using fake pregnancy to traffic cocaine

    4. Public speaking & communication

    Clear communication is one of the most valuable workplace skills. Free resources such as Toastmasters International and TED Talks provide tools to improve confidence, delivery, and persuasion. Strong speakers thrive as trainers, corporate leaders, motivational coaches, or sales professionals—roles where influence and clarity are key.

    5. Artificial intelligence & machine learning

    AI is shaping industries worldwide, from healthcare automation to self-driving cars. Beginners can start with free Python lessons on FreeCodeCamp, then advance through Google AI Education, Kaggle, or Fast.ai. With skills in predictive modelling and machine learning, professionals can pursue careers as AI engineers, researchers, or data scientists—fields that will continue to dominate the future economy.

  • Five fundamental skills for kids to learn this summer

    Five fundamental skills for kids to learn this summer

    Summer is that time of the year, usually from July to September, when most kids are home for the long break after the academic session’s activities. While this can be a time of relaxation, it can also be an opportunity for children to learn skills that schools don’t usually teach. These skills, often vocational, go beyond academics and tend to shape a child’s creativity and confidence.

    Skills are abilities that are either learnt or developed. They can be technical, creative, cognitive, or soft. These skills definitely complement academics, and foster a sense of belonging outside the four walls of a classroom.

    Below are skills kids can learn during this summer:

    1. Art and Crafts

    Arts and crafts involve activities such as painting, drawing, designing, sewing, decorating, etc. Arts basically is creativity, bringing out fresh and original ideas from the old. Most of the resources can be found within reach, e.g at home, in local shops, or nearby markets, etc. These skills, can broaden a child’s memory, drive them to think outside the box, and contribute meaningfully to society. It is also a way to express one’s thoughts, ideas, and messages.

    2. Coding

    Coding is an essential tech skill that offers opportunities around the globe, and can bring lucrative streams of income. Kids can start with the beginner’s level involving programming. However, they should be guided against cybercrimes and Internet fraud.

    Read Also: ‘Engineers need skills on electric ferries, boats’

    3. Cooking

    Preparation of meals is an essential skill a child should learn, even in the comfort of the home. This summer, parents and guardians can guide their children on how to handle kitchen utensils, observe safety precautions, and follow basic cooking steps. Cooking should go beyond eating alone, children should also learn how to prepare those meals, though with supervision. Easy meals like noodles, white rice, garri (eba), can be learnt. The kids should get used to the kitchen, as this skill can raise little chefs that can advance into great ones in the future.

    4. Public speaking

    Public speaking is a verbal and formal form of communication, such as seminars, debates, public speeches, presentations, etc., setting the course for public engagement. This invaluable soft skill helps kids to be confident and courageous, and prepare them for the professional world. By asking questions, contributing to discussions, and volunteering for roles, they can face the audience with ease and address topics that contribute significantly to society.

    5. Emotional Intelligence

    Emotional intelligence is the ability to understand and manage your own emotions in interactions with others. At any age, kids are still in a stage of development physically, emotionally, and psychologically. Therefore, kids can take courses on this skill or be guided by their parents or guardians in order to create awareness about emotions, how they work, and guard against harmful reactions, deal with conflict, and promote good interpersonal relationships.

  • 10 top skills for Nigerian youths to thrive

    10 top skills for Nigerian youths to thrive

    In a world where opportunities are rapidly shifting and traditional jobs are no longer guaranteed, the Nigerian youth must adapt to new realities. The future belongs to those who are skilled, innovative, and prepared to compete both locally and globally. With rising unemployment and an increasingly digital economy, the smartest path forward is to acquire in-demand skills that can open doors to financial stability, personal growth, and global relevance.

    Whether you are a secondary school leaver, a university graduate, or a self-driven entrepreneur, the right skill can take you from job-seeker to job-creator. Nigeria’s dynamic economy, bolstered by technology, creativity, and entrepreneurship is full of opportunities for those who are ready to seize them.

    Below are 10 high-potential careers and skillsets that every Nigerian youth should consider mastering for a more secure and prosperous future.

    1. Software development and programming:

    Nigeria’s tech industry is expanding rapidly, making software developers some of the most sought-after professionals. From building apps to developing software for businesses, this skill offers global employment opportunities and high earning potential. Platforms like GitHub, Udemy, and freeCodeCamp are great places to start.

    2. Digital marketing and content strategy:

    With businesses shifting online, digital marketing has become essential. Skills in SEO, social media management, email marketing, and content creation can help you work as a freelancer, join marketing agencies, or even promote your own brand.

    3. Cybersecurity:

    As digital systems grow, so do cyber threats. Cybersecurity experts are in demand to protect data and prevent online attacks. From government institutions to fintech startups, cybersecurity professionals are vital in ensuring digital safety.

    4. Data Analysis and Artificial Intelligence:

    Data analysts and AI specialists interpret large amounts of data to make informed decisions. In today’s world, where data is the new oil, learning how to analyze and utilise information is a high-value skill for both corporate jobs and tech startups.

    5. Healthcare and medical technology:

    Healthcare remains one of the most essential sectors in Nigeria. Careers in nursing, laboratory science, telemedicine, and medical diagnostics are both fulfilling and future-proof. With ongoing public health challenges, there’s a growing need for well-trained professionals in this field.

    6. Renewable energy and environmental sciences:

    As Nigeria tackles its power crisis, solar energy and other renewable solutions are gaining traction. Learning how to install solar panels or design sustainable energy systems positions you at the forefront of an industry with global support and investment.

    7. Agribusiness and food technology:

    Agriculture is Nigeria’s largest employer, but it’s now being transformed by technology. Skills in agritech, food processing, packaging, and distribution offer exciting, modern avenues for youth to profit from the land and innovate the food supply chain.

    8. Financial technology (FinTech) and blockchain:

    Nigeria’s FinTech sector is booming, with companies like Paystack and Flutterwave leading the way. Blockchain, digital wallets, and online banking are redefining finance. Learning how these systems work can lead to careers in product development, blockchain coding, or fintech operations.

    9. Creative Arts, media, and entertainment:

    Nigeria’s creative industry, Nollywood, Afrobeats, fashion, and design is a global force. Skills in video editing, acting, directing, content creation, and graphic design are increasingly monetizable, especially with digital platforms like YouTube and TikTok empowering creators.

    10. Product Management and Business Development:

    Product managers oversee the creation and success of digital or physical products. They work with designers, developers, and marketers to ensure products meet customer needs. Business development experts, on the other hand, help organizations grow and reach new markets—essential for startups and SMEs.

    Gone are the days when a university degree alone guaranteed a bright future. In today’s world and especially in Nigeria’s dynamic economy, it is the right skillset and right career profession, not just the certificate, that determines your success.

    Youth who embrace these 10 in-demand skills and careers will not only rise above unemployment but will also shape the country’s future in entrepreneurship, innovation, and development. Whether you’re working for a multinational company or starting your own business, these skills can help you thrive.

  • FG takes over skills acquisition centre

    FG takes over skills acquisition centre

    *To Centre into a National Youth Camp

    The Federal Ministry of Youth Development has assumed management of the Agadagba Skill Acquisition Centre, in Ondo State.

    The ministry explained that it took over the centre as part of efforts to strengthen youth empowerment and expand vocational training.

    It noted that this strategic takeover reaffirmed its commitment to widening access to skills-based education and economic opportunities—particularly for young Nigerians in riverine and underserved communities.

    In a statement by the Director, Information and Public Relations of the ministry, Omolara Esan the ministry said the taking over of the centre aligned with the Federal Government’s broader goal of equipping the youth with the tools necessary to build sustainable livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to national development.

    During the official hand-over ceremony on Friday, Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, unveiled plans to upgrade the Centre into a National Youth Camp with an expanded focus that goes beyond vocational training.

    “The new vision encompasses leadership development, digital innovation, entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and community service.

    Read Also: Equipping Yaba youths with technological skills

    “This camp will serve as a rallying point for youth across the South West and the Niger Delta, particularly those from local communities who deserve equal access to national opportunities,” the Minister stated.

    Olawande also outlined the Ministry’s agenda to introduce modern vocational programmes, enhance infrastructure, and deploy qualified professionals to ensure the Centre operates efficiently under its new, broader mandate.

    He gave assurances to stakeholders including the host community, traditional institutions, and young people that the facility would be utilised purposefully and transparently.

    Olawande commended the Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, for facilitating the inter-ministerial collaboration, describing it as a testament to unified national purpose.

  • 18,300 youths to get YAI skills boost, as FG backs project

    18,300 youths to get YAI skills boost, as FG backs project

    The Federal Government has thrown its weight behind the Youth Employability Booster Project, an ambitious initiative aimed at training 18,300 Nigerian youths in vocational, digital, and entrepreneurship skills, pledging to support its expansion as a catalyst for economic and technological development.

    The project, launched in Abuja on Thursday at the John Bosco Institute of Technology, Kubwa, is spearheaded by Young Africa International (YAI), a global non-profit organization, and funded by the Mastercard Foundation with a takeoff grant of $7 million.

    It aims to enhance employability and entrepreneurial capacity among Nigerian youth through a mobile training model that reaches even the most underserved and hard-to-reach communities.

    At the core of the initiative is a six-month intensive training programme combining professional, technical, digital, and life skills.

    The approach removes access barriers by taking training directly into communities, ensuring inclusivity and equal opportunities for all participants.

    Describing the project as a continuation of the organization’s 27-year track record in Southern Africa, Young Africa CEO and co-founder Dorien Beurskens said the programme marks the organisation’s first footprint in West Africa.

    “We chose Nigeria because of the sheer numbers. The youth population and unemployment rates here are the highest on the continent. But we also see enormous potential and energy in Nigerian youth that, when channelled, can fuel national transformation,” she said.

    Beurskens noted that the four-year project, which will run through July 2028, seeks to deliver not only vocational and entrepreneurship training but also psychosocial support and structured work transition services.

    “It’s a system-changing solution for vocational training in Nigeria,” she added, highlighting strong collaboration with partners such as John Bosco Institute of Technology, Kubwa, government agencies, traditional leaders, and civil society.

    Minister of Youth Development Ayodele Olawande lauded the initiative’s inclusiveness, noting that 10% of participants are persons with disabilities and 75% are women.

    Read Also: 10 essential skills Nigerian graduates must possess to get hired in 2025

    “This effort aligns with our Nigerian Youth Academy and complements partnerships with the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA),” he said through his Senior Technical Advisor, Obinna Ebirim.

    He also noted that the YEB project aligns with ongoing initiatives under the Renewed Hope Agenda to create jobs in the digital, creative, and industrial sectors, including the upcoming National Youth Internship Program.

    Director General (DG) of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig. Gen. Olakunke Nafiu described the project as reinforcing NYSC’s Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme.

    “Empowering youth with practical skills is key to building strong communities and national development,” he said.

    Represented by Francisca Mmadumbu, Assistant Director at the SAED Department, the DG assured continued NYSC support for efforts that promote youth empowerment and sustainable progress.

    NBTE Executive Secretary (ES), Prof. Idris Bugaje, called the initiative a game-changer for national development, emphasising that mobile training will greatly expand access to underserved areas.

    “Mobile training is not just a tool but a strategy,” he said, citing international models from Bangladesh, India, and Zimbabwe.

    Represented by Abdul Hamid Usman, he underscored its cost-effectiveness, adaptability, and focus on entrepreneurship, pledging NBTE’s support in integrating it into national frameworks and co-funding deployments.

    Dr. Usman John Ogwuche, representing the Federal Ministry of Education, also commended Young Africa’s collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation.

    “Mobile training offers flexibility, accessibility, and practical outcomes like digital literacy and problem-solving skills,” he said, noting the potential of the model to support women-led enterprises and youth empowerment across the geopolitical zones.

    Wellington Muchechetere, Grants Coordinator for the project in Nigeria, explained the centrality of the mobile training approach, saying, “Instead of expecting youth to travel to vocational centres, we’re bringing training to them.

    “We’re working with artisans and community stakeholders to create a grassroots, community-owned training experience.”

    “Currently we are piloting in Abuja, Lagos, Ondo, and Anambra (Onitsha), with plans to scale nationally, driven by its community-centric, stakeholder-engagement model.

    “The second intervention is the franchise business model, which will support local vocational training centres to become self-sustaining and independent of donor support.”

    Muchechetere emphasised the special focus on female participants, particularly mothers, through a business development arm providing access to loans, mentorship, and coaching beyond traditional training.

    “The goal is not just to skill young people, but to transition them into meaningful livelihoods. We’re here to spark a movement that empowers communities and transforms lives,” he said.

    Traditional rulers, development partners, and beneficiaries commended the project initiators, acknowledging its potential to significantly reduce unemployment and empower young Nigerians across the country.

  • 10 essential skills Nigerian graduates must possess to get hired in 2025

    10 essential skills Nigerian graduates must possess to get hired in 2025

    As Nigeria’s job market becomes more competitive and technology-driven, having a degree is no longer enough to guarantee employment.

    Employers are focused on graduates who can adapt, think critically, and bring practical value from day one. Whether you’re eyeing a role in tech, business, media, or government, soft and digital skills have become key to standing out.

    Here are essential skills Nigerian graduates need to get hired in 2025

    1. Adaptability & lifelong learning

    Industries evolve fast. The ability to learn new tools, stay updated, and pivot quickly keeps you employable and relevant.

    2. Critical thinking & problem solving

    Employers need thinkers, not just doers. Analyzing challenges and offering smart solutions makes you a valuable team member.

    3. Digital communication & teamwork tools

    In the era of remote work and hybrid offices, knowing how to collaborate online is no longer optional.

    4. Time management & personal organisation

    Being able to meet deadlines, plan your day, and stay focused shows maturity and dependability.

    5. Data analysis & spreadsheet skills

    Understanding and using data to inform decisions is vital across industries—from finance to marketing.

    Read Also: Why Sokoto is starting skills acquisition programme from scratch – Muhammad

    6. Financial literacy & budgeting

    Whether in business or your personal life, money management skills help you make smart financial choices.

    7. Entrepreneurial thinking

    Whether you start a business or work for one, an entrepreneurial mindset helps you spot opportunities and innovate.

    8. Basic coding & Website know-how

    Even a basic understanding of how digital tools work gives you an edge in tech-influenced roles.

    9. Networking & relationship building

    Connections can open doors. Building and maintaining professional relationships supports long-term growth.

    10. Negotiation & persuasion

    Whether you’re discussing pay or pitching an idea, persuasive communication helps you get the best outcomes.

  • Top 10 in-demand tech skills to stay relevant in the digital age

    Top 10 in-demand tech skills to stay relevant in the digital age

    In an ever-evolving digital world, staying relevant requires continuous learning and upgrading your skill set. 

    As industries rapidly adopt new technologies, equipping yourself with the right tech skills can significantly boost your career and open doors to exciting opportunities.

    Here are the top 10 in-demand tech skills to help you stay ahead:

    1. Programming Languages: Proficiency in Python, Java, JavaScript, or C++ is essential for various roles in software development and beyond.

    2. Web Development: Mastering HTML, CSS, and JavaScript enables you to build dynamic websites and responsive web applications.

    3. Data Science and Analytics: Skills in data analysis, machine learning, and data visualization are critical in today’s data-driven world.

    Read Also: Skills potent key to unlock Nigeria’s growth, says Poly Rector

    4. Cybersecurity: Understanding threats, vulnerabilities, and protection strategies helps safeguard digital assets in both public and private sectors.

    5. Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning: Knowledge of AI and ML allows you to build intelligent systems that can automate and enhance decision-making.

    6. Cloud Computing: Familiarity with platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud is crucial for managing scalable, flexible IT infrastructure.

    7. DevOps: Learning tools such as Docker, Kubernetes, and Jenkins helps streamline development and deployment, ensuring faster delivery and improved reliability.

    8. UI/UX Design: Designing user-friendly interfaces and experiences improves customer satisfaction and drives product success.

    9. Digital Marketing: Skills in SEO, PPC, content creation, and social media marketing are vital for reaching and engaging online audiences.

    10. Database Management: Understanding data modeling, normalization, and SQL empowers you to manage and query data effectively.

  • Five unconventional skills that will make you succeed after university

    Five unconventional skills that will make you succeed after university

    In today’s fast-paced and constantly changing world, relying solely on academic knowledge is no longer enough. To stay ahead, you need to cultivate a unique set of skills that will not only help you thrive in the professional world but also empower you to carve out your own path.

    Here are five unconventional skills to future-proof your career:

    1. Financial Fluency: In today’s economy, mastering the language of money is essential. It’s not just about balancing your budget—it’s about understanding the nuances of personal finance, investing, and wealth creation. By developing financial fluency, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions and build a secure financial future.

    2. Storytelling Mastery: In a world where information is abundant, attention is scarce. To stand out, you need to be able to tell compelling stories that capture hearts and minds. Storytelling mastery is about crafting narratives that convey your ideas, values, and passions in a way that resonates with others. By developing this skill, you’ll be able to communicate more effectively, build stronger relationships, and inspire others to take action.

    Read Also: Julius Berger committed to skills transfer

    3. Adaptive Resilience: The ability to adapt to change and bounce back from setbacks is crucial in today’s fast-paced world. Adaptive resilience is about developing a mindset that is open to new experiences, receptive to feedback, and capable of navigating uncertainty. By cultivating this skill, you’ll be better equipped to handle the unexpected twists and turns of your career and personal life.

    4. Network Navigation: Your professional network is one of your most valuable assets. Network navigation is about understanding how to build, maintain, and leverage relationships to achieve your goals. By developing this skill, you’ll be able to identify key influencers, foster meaningful connections, and create opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.

    5. Curiosity-Driven Learning: The pace of technological change is accelerating exponentially, making it essential to stay curious and committed to lifelong learning. Curiosity-driven learning is about cultivating a mindset that is open to new ideas, eager to explore unfamiliar territories, and passionate about discovering new knowledge. By embracing this skill, you’ll be better equipped to stay ahead of the curve, adapt to new technologies, and create innovative solutions to complex problems.

    Note that the future of work demands a new set of skills, skills that go beyond the confines of traditional education.

    By developing financial fluency, storytelling mastery, adaptive resilience, network navigation, and curiosity-driven learning, you’ll be better equipped to thrive in a world that is increasingly complex, interconnected, and rapidly changing.

  • Stakeholders discuss skills gaps between institutions, workplace

    Stakeholders discuss skills gaps between institutions, workplace

    Preparations are now in top gear for the unveiling ceremony of the 21st Century Skills Roadmap.

    The two-day event is scheduled to be held at the University of Lagos from Thursday, November 14th to Friday, November 15th. 

     Hosted by Career Digest (CD) Limited, a social business enterprise, in collaboration with leading stakeholders in the education sector, the event promises to unveil before a colourful audience, the fundamentals of the perennial wide-scale skills gaps between the institutions of learning and the workplace in Nigeria and across parts of Africa.

    Read Also: Experts set to unveil reform agenda for career, skills development

    More significantly, CD will unveil credible solution pathways to resolving the endemic problem that has spanned decades and seemingly defied solutions.

    The 21st CSR event, its organisers said,  shall provide participants access to an uncommon assemblage of key relevant sector stakeholders, keen to resolve the unfortunate problem. 

     The epoch-making event which is planned as a hybrid occurrence, will host about 500 onsite and 3,000 offsite participants.

    It will feature activities that include keynote addresses, goodwill messages, a Big Picture presentation, panel discussions, official endorsements, Business to Business (B2B) Sessions, networking, and exhibitions, among others.