By Oluwatope Lawanson
The Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, has said that government would intensify efforts at ensuring appropriate funding for scholarly activities.
Hamzat made the remarks on Tuesday at the “Lecture Series” organised for fresh undergraduates of the University of Lagos, as part of their orientation activities.
According to him, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration is committed to driving development through various people-oriented programmes.
This, he said , was particularly in providing a conducive environment for education for youth to thrive as they remained the hopes for a better and greater Lagos state.
In his address titled: “Preparing For Today To Safeguard Your Future’s Aspiration And Goals” the deputy governor stressed that students should be driven by a stepping stone toward the realisation of their academic and career goals.
He reiterated that a key aspect of safeguarding the future goals in school is meticulous planning.
“Setting clear and achievable objectives provide a roadmap for progress by focusing mainly on your academic activities.
“Success is not a destination but a continuous journey. Therefore, foster a mindset of life long learning adaptability and a willingness to explore new horizons.
“Acquire the needed skills and knowledge that will not only propel you for a greater and better future and success but also where you can contribute to the growth and development of our dear nation,” he said.
The deputy governor, therefore, urged the students to engage in worthy religious, social and extracurricular activities like literary club, humanitarian services, sporting activities and other life-rewarding endeavours.
He also implored them to maximise their potentials and utilise every bit of it to achieve their goals, and stand out from the best.
Hamzat who spoke on the need for self-discipline, focus, craving for success and abstinence from all known vices, advised them to be optimistic and continue to strive for greatness and success always.
He, however, urged them to be mindful of the kind of association they kept, and to beware of drug epidemic.
According to him, it is easy to become overwhelmed by the challenges, distractions, and temptations to follow shortcuts.
He noted that the youths are continuously faced with daunting challenges but stated that through multi-faceted approach, they could be inspired, and energised.
“They must know that perseverance, determination and hard work are virtues that can make one achieve greatness in life and not by cutting corners or engaging in criminal acts like money ritual, armed robbery, kidnapping, “yahooplus”among others.”
He, therefore, charged them on shunning acts and behaviours that would be detrimental to their successes in life.
He also tasked them on building relationships with serious-minded students whose priority was academic excellence.
Earlier in her remarks, the UNILAG Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Folashade Ogunshola said that leadership remained taking tough decisions, and not pump and pageantry.
Ogunshola, therefore, congratulated the new intakes while noting that the institution bred leaders. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
