Story, Ghatim Patience
Renowned economic expert, Dr. Joe Ngalle, recently challenged students at ICT University to develop entrepreneurial skills, emphasizing the importance of becoming job creators rather than job seekers.
During a seminar held on March 21 at the university’s campus in Yaounde, Ngalle delivered a lecture on the theme “From a small business to an empire.”
He highlighted the challenges Cameroon’s youths will face in the next five years if they fail to become entrepreneurs.
“Cameroon today is made up of 65% youths aged between 1 and 25, resulting in a very high dependency ratio,” Ngalle warned.
“We will be in big trouble in the next five years if something is not done. The government employs only 6% of the population, and the private sector employs 25%. There is a problem that needs urgent attention.”
Ngalle urged students to stop relying on government and other companies for employment, instead encouraging them to develop an entrepreneurial spirit.
“It’s time for Cameroon’s youths to take up the challenge and become entrepreneurs,” he said.
“They can start with small businesses like poultry farming, agriculture, or other petty businesses that can grow into real estate over time.”
The expert emphasized the importance of discipline and focus in achieving success. “To achieve your goals, you must be disciplined and focused,” Ngalle stated.
“There are many opportunities available, and youths must take advantage of them.”
Students who attended the seminar praised Ngalle’s insights, with one student, Edimo, saying, “I have learned a lot from our father. This seminar has opened my eyes to the various opportunities available to youths, and I have taken home the spirit of entrepreneurship.”
ICT University has a vision to train job creators rather than job seekers, and has successfully trained several students who are excelling in business, information technology, agric-tech, software development, and other fields.
