The Chairman, Chartered Institute of Bankers (CIB), Edo State, Ibukun Akande has counseled that students should reflect on passions, skills, and careers that align with their interests.
Akande, the keynote speaker, made the statement during the Institute’s maiden career talk on Monday, at St. Mary Dedication British International School (SMDBIS) in Benin City, the Edo State capital.
The event aimed at guiding young students toward informed career choices, with SMDBIS as the first beneficiary school, was chaired by Ibukun Akande.
It is the first time the Chartered Institute of Bankers (CIB), Edo State, is providing such a program to a secondary school in Edo, with a mission to help students understand the importance of choosing the right career paths early on.
Akande emphasized that many students only discover their true career interests after their first degree, and this often leads to a need for further education and training.
“Some people after their first degree that is when they choose their career plan, then go back for a second degree. To curb that, that is why we are doing this,” he noted.
He advised SMDBIS students to utilize their spare time wisely, focusing on skill-building activities rather than distractions.
“Start by doing things you love doing. When you join groups, you connect with like-minded people. Utilise your spare time, try to develop what you can do that others can benefit from, don’t waste your spare time, it’s not the time to play games, it’s to reflect on what you want,” he said.
The workshop covered practical strategies for achieving career goals. Akande highlighted the value of volunteering, not just to gain experience but also to build connections and potentially secure future employment. He urged the students to seek mentorship, take executive classes, and consider opportunities that align with their long-term goals.
Some students shared their takeaways from the session. Michael Olojokosoko, an SS2 student appreciated the organisers for such a wonderful initiative stating, “I was able to understand different careers and their paths, and the steps to obtaining them.
“It has also made me understand that you should know your career path and what it entails, and also seek mentorship from people who are well-informed”.
On her part, Ivy, an SS1 student expressed her appreciation, noting, “I was able to learn that when we want to choose our career path we need to develop our interest, learn skills, and focus on interests and how to build them.
“I will say thank you because it was really enlightening. Before, I thought when you have many interests you can juggle everything at once not considering the consequences. But now, I know you can have partners that can help you and encourage you”.
Akande further counselled with a message on integrity, especially for those considering a career in banking, stressing, “Banking and finance industry looks for individuals of integrity. Programs like this ensure that when students graduate, they have a clear vision and support system, and they are well-prepared to pursue a career that aligns with their interest without being tossed around.”
Ultimately, the Chartered Institute of Bankers, Edo State, plans to engage St. Mary Dedication British International School’s management to discuss how career guidance can be further integrated into the school’s curriculum and how parents can play an active role in their children’s career planning.
