A former commissioner for works and transport in Oyo State, Alhaji Yunus Akintunde has revealed that his experience on his first day as an undergraduate of the Lagos State University, LASU, made him forget the idea of applying for jobs after graduation.
Akintunde spoke during his installation as one of the patrons of the Oyo State chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN.
According to Akintunde, who is currently a doctoral candidate at the University of Ibadan, his first day as an undergraduate opened his eyes and prepared him, adding that “with determination and focus, anybody can achieve his dreams.”
Hear him: “I had gone to class for the first time that day and I saw many people in class. Many questions came to my mind: where are those who graduated before I was admitted? Where are we going after graduation; are we going into the labour market together? What of those coming after us? There were many questions. That day, I made up my mind that whatever it takes, I will hustle my way to success.
“There is nothing that is perfect in life. I have never written application letter. After school, I tried my hands on many things. And to a greater extent, I can say I am fulfilled.
“If I can say that about my own time, what of now; when everything has gone to the lowest ebb? We all see the number of people that apply for few vacancies. It’s time we tailored our mind towards skill development. Because we finish from the best school does not stop us from acquring skill. Add values to your life. What do you think you can do apart from the certificate you have? What do they need in your area that is not being sold? What can you do that will be of need to many people? These are things we should think of. When we have something we are doing, that brings food to the table, the society will be better for it,” he advised.
He, however, urged youth to “always stand by the truth, face the reality of life. Let’s also try to read books. Let’s listen to those who are superior to us. And let’s have a mentor who can guide us. With these, we will surmount our problems.”
