Preparing oneself for a visionary future

“The future is not something we enter, but something we create- John Shoemaker
As students, we are often asked what we want to be when we grow up. Most of us say Doctors, Engineers, Scientists etc. Coming from a lower-middle-class family, respect is often the ultimate goal, which is understandable. But in pursuit of respect, we may chase the profession we don’t truly have passion for, leading to personal dissatisfaction. Rarely are we asked, “What kind of world do we want to grow up in?”. Growing up, I have envisioned a society that is respectful, sustainable and successful. However, I know the complexity of achieving this vision. I accept it is not that simple but we can still create one. A beautiful world can be attained when society considers respect regardless of one’s profession. We all know the phrase “Give respect and take respect”, this should be our motto as citizens. It’s time for us to take ownership of our future and envision a world that is just, equitable, and sustainable.
In the past, acquiring knowledge relied heavily on mentors. Today, information and knowledge are at our fingertips. Our future is heading into a diverse, unknown landscape. We must prepare for this uncertainty. By imagining a better future, let’s identify challenges faced by our generation amidst the 4th industrial revolution, harnessing AI’s vast potential. However, every positive outcome comes with a negative impact, which is distraction. Constant digital connectivity distracts us, often unconsciously, on Instagram, Facebook, Telegram, WhatsApp, etc.
To counter this, every youth and student should consider part-time jobs and side hustles, reducing dependence on parents for basic needs. Ironically, parents often discourage and suppose it to be a handicap for academics, but I believe we can diversify our time and invest in activities that could be odd but fruitful.
With the AI advancing rapidly, there’s a risk to careers. Let us be vigilant in choosing what we are preparing for. Some may think the Al replacement will take time. But if we look decades ago, sending information required visiting telephone stations kilometres away. Today, we share information in seconds. Every union is doing their own part to be a favourable “incubator” for students to grow. This is imprinting a permanent sense of community in every individual. However, many students cite societal prejudices as a barrier to growth.
The fact is that society’s nature won’t change but we can. All we do is build a strong mindset to ignore ignorance. There is no glory, no story out of comfort. Fear is what keeps us tied inside a hard shell. Fear of failing, fear of not becoming the one we have imagined. Fear of prejudices, fear of observation. If you are not ready to be uncomfortable, you are not ready to grow.
Preparing for the future means diversifying our knowledge and focusing on skills and interests that can positively impact our community. That can ultimately bring a positive impact on our community. From Technical Skills like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), Cybersecurity, Blockchain Technology, D Printing, etc., to soft Skills like Creativity and Innovation, Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving, Emotional Intelligence, Leadership, Time Management, Productivity etc. with a motive for Sustainability, Social Responsibility, Mental Health, Social Impact, Innovation, Entrepreneurship etc. By building these skills, we emphasise a sustainable future, draw inspiration from Civil Service aspirants whom we deeply respect and learn from. Their resilience and determination in tackling these exams even after setbacks are a huge motivation.
In conclusion, ‘Preparing Oneself for a Visionary Future’ is our chance to shape the future we want.
As we move forward, let us continually ask ourselves: “What role will I play in society as a provider or recipient, producer or consumer?” We must learn to see failure as an opportunity for growth, rather than a setback. With advanced learning, overcoming fear and embracing failure as a learning process can have a transformative effect on both our personal growth and our community.
Let us be an inspiration for future generations. Remember, “Think big, start small, and don’t quit.”
Linovi Kinimi, B.A
3rd Semester
Deptt of Education, Modern College,
Piphema