By Sahel Reporters – Yola
In a compelling address delivered at the Speech and Prize Giving Ceremony of Colonel Isa Ahmed Memorial School, Yola, the Director-General of the Adamawa State Debt Management Agency, Professor Ibrahim Danjuma, FIPESA, FIMC, FABES, FIBDFM, emphasized the transformative power of entrepreneurship in shaping the character and future of young people.
Speaking on the theme “Building Resilience: How Entrepreneurship Can Shape the Character of Youths,” Prof. Danjuma highlighted the need to go beyond traditional academic training and instill in students the practical values of resilience, adaptability, and personal responsibility, traits he described as essential in navigating the uncertainties of modern life.
“Entrepreneurship is not merely about business. It is a character-building process,” he noted. “In today’s rapidly evolving world, our youths need more than certificates; they need courage, adaptability, and a sense of purpose.”
According to the guest speaker, the entrepreneurial journey is akin to venturing into uncharted territory. “It is filled with risks, failures, and tough decisions,” he said, “but it is precisely these elements that foster resilience and grit.”
He explained that when young people engage in entrepreneurial pursuits, they are compelled to confront challenges, make critical decisions, and accept the consequences of their actions, an experience that strengthens their sense of accountability and independence.
Prof. Danjuma argued that failure, often perceived negatively in academic settings, plays a crucial role in entrepreneurship. “Failure is not the end but a necessary stepping stone to success,” he said, encouraging youths to see mistakes as learning opportunities and to cultivate the strength to bounce back stronger.
The guest speaker further stressed that entrepreneurship nurtures adaptability, a skill he called essential in a world of rapid technological and economic change. “Entrepreneurs learn to pivot, to embrace innovation, and to navigate the unknown with flexibility. These are life skills, not just business tactics.”
He also pointed out that successful entrepreneurship builds confidence and self-efficacy among youths, helping them believe in their own capabilities. “This confidence becomes their weapon to overcome obstacles, not only in business but in all areas of life.”
Moreover, Prof. Danjuma emphasized the importance of networking and collaboration in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. “No entrepreneur succeeds in isolation,” he said. “Working with mentors, partners, and peers fosters teamwork, communication, and negotiation skills—qualities vital in any career.”
Concluding his address, Prof. Danjuma urged schools, parents, and policymakers to encourage entrepreneurial thinking among the youth. “Let us guide our children to develop not just intellectually but holistically,” he said. “By cultivating entrepreneurial skills, we are preparing them to face an unpredictable future with resilience, creativity, and determination.”
He commended the management of Colonel Isa Ahmed Memorial School for creating platforms that expose students to critical life lessons and practical wisdom. “This kind of engagement,” he said, “is what our educational system needs to remain relevant and impactful.”
The event, attended by parents, educators, students, and community leaders, was marked by award presentations, cultural displays, and a renewed call for youth empowerment through entrepreneurship.
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