June 01, (THEWILL) – The chairman, Sokoto Professionals Network, a non-profit organisation advancing human development in Sokoto State, Engineer Zayyanu Tambari Yabo, has said early career decision-making is a key component to educational success.
Zayyanu notes that no society can advance any development beyond the quality of education it gives its citizens.
He spoke in Sokoto, at a one-day career guidance awareness programme organised by the Network for selected Junior Secondary School Three (JSS3) Students of Sokoto State.
Zayyanu highlighted the importance of career guidance in shaping the professional development of students, urging them to always make well-informed decisions.
“It is not just enough to put our children in the classrooms and teach them subjects without preparing their minds on which career path to pursue in life.
“That is why we see the importance of bringing students from various JSS3 from Sokoto State together to orient them on various career opportunities available to them at the early stage of their academics.
“We all know that Education is a key component of human development in any society. No society can develop beyond the quality of education it gives citizens”, he further explained.
Zayyanu, however, lamented as worrisome the failing educational system in the country but noted that all hands must be on deck.
Speaking, Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, who was represented by the District Head of Gagi, Alhaji Sani Umar Jabbi, urged the students to look inwardly and explore Artificial Intelligence courses and technology skills while choosing their career path.
In his remarks, the chairman of the occasion, Alhaji Umaru Ajiya, urged the participating students to focus not just on academic certificates but also on acquiring practical skills that could lead to self-employment and entrepreneurship.
He also advised parents to encourage and allow their children to pursue careers that align with their interests without undue pressure.
The State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Professor A.L. Ala, who was represented by Bashir Aliyu Gada, Director of Basic Education, said the State Government is ready to partner with corporate organisations who aim to advance the education sector in the state.
The keynote address ‘Imperative of Guidance and Counselling as a Critical Enabler of a Successful Career Choice’ was presented by the Chairperson of the Counselling Association of Nigeria, Dr Abubakar Boyi Sifawa.
Tunde Omolehin is an award-winning Journalist with prose in investigative and storytelling that is connecting the dots between the under-reported communities and policymakers to ensure good governance and accountability.
