An educational and career path navigation summit has been organised for several students, parents and teachers in Accra last Friday.
The “Passion into action summit 23” sought to lay bare some of the challenges that arise between children and parents on an appropriate career path and how to mitigate those challenges.
It was organised by Dream World Ghana in partnership with the New Times Corporation on the theme “A gathering of change-makers lighting the way to a better future.”
A Ghanaian author, Ms Mariska Araba Taylor-Darko, said making the right choices in education was crucial for personal growth and future success, stating that “discover your interests, set goals, work hard, seek help when needed, and believe in yourself.”
She urged the students to embrace challenges, avoid distractions, and surround themselves with positive influences as they explore different paths and celebrate their achievements along the way.
“Remember, your education journey is an exciting adventure, and you have the power to make it a fulfilling and rewarding one. So go out there and make the right choices, and you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve,” she said.
She urged the children to dream big and strive for excellence in all aspects of their lives, as the adults would always be around to support them in everything they do adding that “you are capable of greatness. Believe in yourself and never give up.”
“So, dream big, set those goals, and let your ambition shine! You’ve got this, and we’re here to cheer you on every step of the way,” she added.
A communications specialist, Mr Kwabena Ameyaw, in his remarks urged students to dialogue with their parents to find their career path instead of rebelling when their parents choose a career path for them.
“Whenever your parents disagree with you on your choice of career path, you can speak to a mentor who will approach your parents and give them a broader perspective and also speak with your teachers so they know where you align,” he said.
He further explained that some parents after being engaged by their children’s mentor would not change their decision, pointing out that children could still pursue their passion at any point in their life, so they could still study the course prescribed by their parents and when they are independent, they could pursue their passion.
A supervisor for Advert Sales and Business Relations of the New Times Corporation (NTC) and panellist at the summit, Mrs Edzodzi Can-Tamakloe, added that it was never too late to pursue one’s passion as she herself was currently pursuing her passion in fashion design.
A career path she would have loved to take when she was a child, however her parents had a different plan for her life, as she was not old enough to make life changing decisions.
“Sometimes you find yourself in a position you can’t get your parents to agree with you and it is okay because they are taking care of you but know that you can still get your degree and pursue your passion no matter your age,” she said.
A teacher, Kobi Cole, urged the students to be mindful of the foundations they lay for themselves as it would shape their future.
BY JESSEL LARTEY THERSON-COFIE
