My mobile tablet developed some technical faults. A friend of my dad who worked in the Electronic section of Alaba International Market, assured me of a reliable shop where I could get it repaired.
On our way, we passed through Lagos State University. We observed a throng of undergraduates milling about. And he made a comment that struck me.
He said, “And where will they fit into this jobless society? There are so many graduates who are jobless, Youth corpers who are about to join the job market, and here are undergraduates; about to join the assemblage of unemployed graduates. What a pity!”
And I said to myself, this man is correct. He has a point.
After a few minutes, I came up with a suggestion I’ve decided to share: Learn a craft.
It might seem demeaning or absurd to the ears but this will go a long way to help you when you are faced with the crises of unemployment.
I know of a teenager who is presently studying mechanical engineering in the university. During the holidays, (and thankfully unappreciated ASUU strike) he’s an auto-mechanic in training.
There're so many crafts you can engage in. There’s plumbing, woodwork, hair-making, electrician, photography; amidst others.
This just reminded me of a friend who studied business administration in the university but learned photography as a craft. Presently, he owns his own studio; a rising brand, whose rakes in thousands of naira a month.
Tara Durotoye, the founder and CEO of House of Tara, graduated from Lagos state University with a degree in Law, and proceeded to establish the House of Tara International; a craft she’d began in the university.
Combining your formal knowledge with your artisan skill will give you a distinct style over others. The Present ASUU strike, provides a golden opportunity. Don’t waste the time, sitting at home, ruining your eyes watching endless television shows. Go learn a handwork and you'll be thankful in the future.
Photo credit - therakyatpost.com
That's one thing most graduates don't know. Hand work keeps you busy till you get your dream job
ReplyDeleteOr the handwork can become more lucrative than the dream job
DeleteSkill acquisition is the solution to high level of unemployment and high rate of crime in our society
ReplyDeleteIts so is. The high level of unemployment in the country is alarming .
DeleteAt this point in time were there is no job without connection to the right persons the only alternative is self employment. The challenge now is raising funds to kick start your ideas or to pay the master of the trade one wants to learn...this is a real challenge for every entrepreneur.
ReplyDeleteIt's not that expensive. And it's a worthwhile investment. And you can start small.
DeleteSooo true
ReplyDeleteMuch appreciated
DeleteSkill acqusition is very key for a sustainable and prosperous future
ReplyDeleteEspecially for Nigeria
DeleteAsides getting a degree, BSc or HND or Diploma, acquiring skills to sharpen your innate ability is another pre-requisite for success. Everyone should endeavor to upgrade his or her skill set every now and then, as technology advances and expertise are required.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the add-on
DeleteLecturers going on strike is for me a "Blessing in disguise" for any serious creative and Intelligent student. While study time for academics is halted, learning and grooming time for entrepreneurial skills is activated. Entrepreneurship can be practised anywhere at anytime. Let's make use of our times wisely.
ReplyDeleteI hail this comment O.
DeleteYou hit the nail squarely on the head. Bull's-eye
Two hands are better than one
ReplyDeleteHmmmm mm
DeleteWhen the President said "The Youths Are Lazy", i was one of those who condemned him, just because he voiced that opinion in a foreign land.
ReplyDeleteLooking back again, he does make a lot of sense to a very large extent. Instead of getting serious very early in life, some of us just while away time doing unproductive things...... Before you know it, they'd now be looking for fast money.
Make hay while the sun shines
DeleteI should learn a craft. Thanks, this write-up is an eye-opener.
ReplyDeleteYou are welcome
Delete