Congratulations to the matric class of 2023 on its overall success. Those with good results must make every effort to further their studies appropriately. To those who have not done well or failed, take good note that the phrase ‘failure is a stepping stone to success’ is not just a cliché, but a truism.
Undertake due diligence and apply wisdom and discernment in choosing a field of study and a higher learning institution.
Be wary and ensure that both the courses and institution are accredited by the higher education authorities. This will avoid one being victims of bogus institutions that have the primary objective of defrauding students, many of whom are cash-strapped.
Having been in recruitment, selection and employment at some stages of my varied working career – and being involved in the employment of all categories of staff from general assistants to executives and having perused thousands of CVs – I can confirm that not all persons who rose to the top were A or even B grade students.
The keys to success, especially in education and a work career, is to work hard and smart, make lots of sacrifices, avoid being distracted, take good advice and be consistently dogged and determined in your studies/work, with a singular purpose to succeed.
Be simple and humble and serve God and humanity. Mistakes will happen, but this must serve to challenge and better oneself.
Best wishes for the future, especially to the 18 and over age group.
Sadly, our young ones are at the greatest disadvantage in life, primarily regarding employment and furthering their studies, the latter due mainly to financial constraints.
Please do not wallow in self pity but make concerted efforts to improve oneself by being positive and seeking suitable employment or business opportunities.
The various tiers of government have diverse schemes and measures in this connection. Your local ward councillor or local authority should be approached in this regard or the internet browsed.
Note the request for a cash payment in an advert or other communication for work opportunities should be a red flag that the offeror or addressor is a con artist.
No one is to pay any monies at all to secure employment. The only money that will be paid is by an organisation/employer using an employment agency to recruit a suitable employee.
Good education begins at home and good role models must be looked up to, such as devoted parents and grandparents, knowledgeable community/village elders, reputable persons of the cloth and good educators, who all play great and meaningful roles in positively influencing youngsters and shaping their future.
SIMON T. DEHAL
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