Yesterday, I had the privilege of addressing the newly admitted students of Venite University, Iloro Ekiti, as part of the institution’s ongoing orientation program. The two-hour interactive session was designed to equip the freshers with the necessary mindset and skills to navigate their academic journey successfully.
As I congratulated the students on their admission, I urged them to view their time at the university as a lifetime-changing opportunity. I emphasized the importance of adopting a growth mindset, encouraging them to think creatively and approach challenges with a problem-solving attitude.
“Your time here is a chance to redefine your perceptions, challenge your assumptions, and develop a more nuanced understanding of the world,” I said. “I encourage you to be more creative, think outside the box, and use your brains to process information comprehensively before making judgments.”
I also stressed the importance of hard work, smart thinking, and effective time management. “You must work hard and be smart in your studies and thinking,” I advised. “Avoid distractions, especially on social media, and focus on acquiring relevant skills and knowledge that will make you competitive in the global market.”
To drive home my point, I cautioned the students against the perils of social media distraction, emphasizing the importance of leveraging digital resources like YouTube, Google, and AI to enhance their learning experience. “Lecturers will only provide you with less than 50% of what you need to learn,” I noted. “You must take responsibility for your own learning, using available digital tools to supplement your academic pursuits.”
Furthermore, I encouraged the students to prioritize their academic goals, avoiding the temptation of quick fixes or easy money. “Don’t let the lure of quick wealth distract you from your academic pursuits,” I warned. “Remember that the investment your parents have made in you is precious, and you must not allow it to be wasted.”
In addition, I emphasized the importance of building quality relationships with their peers, mentors, and role models. “The friends you make here will influence your future direction and destiny,” I said. “Choose your friends wisely and surround yourself with people who will inspire and motivate you to achieve your goals.”
As I concluded my address, I challenged the students to be good ambassadors of Venite University, both during their time on campus and after graduation. “You are the future leaders and change-makers of our society,” I said. “I urge you to focus on acquiring relevant skills, building positive relationships, and developing a growth mindset that will enable you to navigate the complexities of the 21st century.”
Finally, I encouraged the students to be ambitious, not just in their academic pursuits but also in their desire to give back to the university and society at large. “Read books like ‘Rich Dad and Poor Dad’ by Robert Kiyosaki, which will inspire you to think differently about wealth, success, and entrepreneurship,” I recommended. “As you navigate your academic journey, remember that your ultimate goal should be to create value, solve problems, and make a positive impact in your community and the world at large,” I concluded.
I am adl