By Jude Opara, Abuja
The immediate past deputy governor of Edo state, Comrade Philip Shaibu has advised Nigerians, particularly the youths to refocus their minds and develop positive attitude of nationalism, with special interest to address societal challenges as well as self development, so as to succeed in Nigeria’s dynamic socio-economic environment.
Comrade Shaibu gave the advice in a keynote address at Akwa Ibom state University Alumni Association Leadership and Entrepreneurship Summit on Wednesday, April 12.
The former deputy governor who spoke on the topic: Leadership and Entrepreneurship Summit with the theme ‘Igniting Leadership and Entrepreneurial Excellence: Alumni As A Catalyst,’ advised Nigerian students to look beyond the classroom and begin to develop the mentality of self development and entrepreneurship, instead of the mentality of job hunting.
He argued that education should be seen as a foundation and not a destination, just as he highlighted the benefits of entrepreneurship and skills acquisition to include breaking economic barriers and limitations.
He said; “The journey of professional development, no doubt, begins within the university walls but extends far imperatively for both individual advancement and national development.
“The conventional employment-focused mindset essentially places your future in others people’s hands. Let me be unequivocal, formal education remains invaluable. Academic training provides critical foundation for mind development and opportunities but entrepreneurial ventures and professional careers help you to create value on your own terms for professional and economic fulfillment.”
The former NANS president further charged the students to seek foundational skills essential for self development and success which he would propel them to think about addressing societal challenges directly, and to generate opportunities for others.
” I recall my own time at the University of Jos, where I studied accounting and served as NANS President. I was filled with ambition, believing my academic credentials would seamlessly translate into professional success. However, reality teaches different lessons.
“The certificate that symbolizes years of dedicated study is merely the foundation. Today’s discussion, ‘Beyond the Classroom: Leveraging Skills for Practical Application in both Entrepreneurial Ventures and Professional Careers’ addresses precisely this transition from academic knowledge to practical application in both entrepreneurial ventures and professional careers.”
Comrade Shaibu challenged the students and youths in generally to build wealth beyond the limits of salary structures and as well chart their own course to ensure a secured future for them and the country in general.
He commended the Vice Chancellor of the Akwa Ibom State University, Prof. Nse Essien for the steady growth and development as well as the peaceful atmosphere in the university community.
The high point of the event was the presentation of leadership excellence award to Comrade Shaibu by the University Alumni Association and the ground breaking of the Akwa Ibom State University Alumni Secretariat and Skills Acquisition Center which was also performed by Comrade Philip Shaibu.
Equally there was other activities like the unveiling of the University Campus Transport Scheme, Academic grants among others by the Comrade Nwanfor Michael led Alumni Association.
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