HANDOUTS OR KNOWLEDGE ?

 What is needed to transform Africa? Is it hand outs or knowledge? Africa is a resource endowed continent with talented people, a rich cultural heritage and fertile soils. That is why many Chinese are flocking to Africa. Why is it that mineral rich countries such as Democratic Republic of Congo are known for civil wars? 

As a financial literacy trainer I have the privilege of interacting with so many young people across the country. The question that I have always asked myself is why do some youths prefer to be given physical cash rather than knowledge that will enable them to become agents of positive change in their communities. I remember a reputable company organized an entrepreneurship workshop with very good content but some youths cited lack of transport as the reason why they could not attend the course. But if it was a premier league match those youths will have borrowed immensely to attend. 

The key question to ask is where are the priorities of the youths? I have had of cases where university students gambled tuition money. I saw a story where some able bodied youths ganged up to beat up staff of a betting company because they had failed to pay them their share. Iam not saying that youths are not facing glaring challenges such as unemployment. However the Chinese say that wherever there is a challenge there lies an opportunity though it takes the right mindset to discover the opportunity.


HOW THE YOUTHS CAN TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OPPORTUNITIES

1.Mentorship and coaching

2.Formation of groups such as investment clubs

3.Financial literacy training

4.Embracing life long learning

5.Talent development

6.Leadership development


Uganda has plenty of opportunities. We can get rid of poverty if all efforts are directed at changing the mindsets of many of the youths who see themselves as victims. The culture of youths preferring to be given hand outs instead of knowledge is getting outdated as discussed above.

Phillip Kiryowa

Finance and Leadership Coach

+256752615916

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