Graduates have been implored set their sights high and either continue with their education to gain higher qualifications or become the change by creating businesses that can employ others.
This was said by Reverend Dr. Tafadzwa Madembe during the graduation ceremony of 47 students from TSL College, a Maun based vocational training institution. Celebrating a significant milestone in their lives the students graduated in various fields within the hospitality industry as well as other fields, this past Friday.
The ceremony, a culmination of hard work and determination, was filled with pride, hope, and words of encouragement for the graduates stepping into the next chapter of their journeys.
Madembe, the keynote speaker, delivered a powerful address, reflecting on the challenges the graduates had overcome. “The journey to reaching your goals has been quite the journey, but you have all arrived here. After the sacrifices and the growth that you had to go through in life, you have reached this pinnacle, and I am grateful to have the opportunity to address you as you open the door to your new life. Congratulations,” he stated.
The theme of the ceremony, “Fear is a bigger disability than having no arms and legs,” attributed to motivational speaker Nick Vujicic, served as the foundation of Madembe’s message. Vujicic, born without arms and legs due to tetra-amelia syndrome, is known worldwide for inspiring people to overcome adversity and live fulfilling lives. Drawing from this theme, Madembe reflected on his own journey of perseverance and eventual success, urging graduates to embrace courage and determination in the face of life’s challenges.
While the event was celebratory, Madembe did not shy away from addressing the realities of the competitive job market. “While I am proud that you have made it this far, the journey has not ended. The job market is saturated, and there are more graduates with higher qualifications battling for the same opportunities. I implore you to take a serious look at yourselves and set your sights high. Either continue your education to gain higher qualifications or become the change by creating businesses that can employ others. This is what is needed in this industry,” he advised.
One of the graduates Mpho Morapedi, who completed her studies in Records and Management, shared her story: “After this experience, I learned that determination can get you where you want in life. I was determined to see this through, and when it finally came to an end, it showed me that education has no age limit. I’ve come this far and am willing to continue my studies while working.”
