By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
In a weekly program at the Institute of Arabic and Islamic Training Center, Markaz Agege, Lagos, the Rector, Sheikh Habeebullah Adam Al-Ilory, expressed concern over the current mindset of students, stating that many are solely focused on obtaining certificates rather than seeking quality knowledge.
Highlighting a shift in educational priorities, Sheikh Habeebullah reminisced about the academic landscape of the early 70s to 1977. During this period, graduates of Western education in Nigerian universities enjoyed immediate employment opportunities and the luxury of owning cars.
He attributed this success to the academic excellence of the graduates, emphasizing that their certificates were a true reflection of their brilliance.
The Rector lamented the current state of affairs, stating, “Students of nowadays are only looking for certificates and not knowledge.” He argued that the graduates of today are considered “half-baked” with certified certificates, making them less desirable to employers.
Sheikh Habeebullah also predicted a promising future for graduates with proficiency in Arabic language. He asserted that as Arabic-speaking countries actively participate in international forums like the United Nations and the European Union, the demand for Arabic language interpreters is on the rise.
However, he cautioned students against rushing through their academic journey, urging them to focus on acquiring recognized and sound knowledge rather than chasing wealth prematurely.
Drawing a vivid analogy, he likened half-baked graduates to horses with broken spinal cords, emphasizing that they neither move forward nor backward.
The Rector urged all Arabic and Islamic graduates to remain steadfast in their pursuit of education, highlighting that true and lasting wealth is attained through a foundation of recognized and robust knowledge.
Emphasizing, Sheikh Habeebullah encouraged students to prioritize academic excellence, stressing that those who excel academically will be sought after.
The Rector’s insights serve as a call to action for the academic community to reevaluate the current educational mindset and place a renewed emphasis on the pursuit of knowledge for the betterment of both individuals and society.
