Rather than spend your time speculating about bitcoin and cryptocurrencies, you could actually spend that time investing in education and knowledge about bitcoin and the technologies around cryptocurrencies.
Your two arguments are correct. It can be both if that's what the individual wants. We shouldn't be boxed to choose one of the others. They both can exist together. Based on my goals and aspirations , I want to acquire as much knowledge as I can about Bitcoin thereby learning a valuable skill in the process. I also want to learn about speculation. There's no harm in it. There's so much to gain from it.
Kindly suggest some other valuable skills one can acquire by learning about bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies?
I agree with most of the skills you have mentioned. They can be applied to various sectors or industries. Knowledge of Bitcoin can help you acquire cyber security skills, and data analysis or data science skills, you could learn excellent communication skills and become a Bitcoin educator. The list is endless.