With poverty and the high rates of unemployment in the country, there is still hope for the Year 2016 graduates in the country.
This was the gist of the graduation speech of Prof. Leonor Magtolis-Briones during the 58th commencement exercises of Negros Oriental State University held March 22 at the Lamberto Macias Sports & Cultural Center with a total of 1,774 graduates.
Professor Briones cited government labor statistics how unemployment is affecting those aged 15 to 24. She said Negros Oriental is 4th in the list of four provinces that are labeled as poor in the Visayas. The top three are provinces in Samar.
She noted that NORSU has provided the bulk of professionals in the workforce, that its budget needs to be increased.
She noted the bright prospects this year in employment, firstly because of the elections. There is a demand for bright and energetic people to work with politicians to do campaign activities, research, and do writing jobs. These activities are available but not necessarily sustainable.
A second reason for the bright prospects she said is the accelerated development programs of the two Negros provinces. She said that if we elect development-oriented candidates, there’s a possibility of more jobs.
Third, she advised the graduates,“Go abroad.” She noted some courses in their Alma Mater which could easily land them jobs abroad such as the sciences, engineering, and nursing.
Fourth reason, Professor Briones told the graduates to “create your own jobs.” She encouraged them to engage in being self-employed for a start. She said she is glad to know there are more than a hundred graduates in Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishery.
The highest number of NORSU graduates came from Business Administration with more than 600.
Lastly, Briones said, getting a college degree, plus determination and hard work could lead them to get their dream jobs. She reminded them: “The University gave you learning and skills. [Now] Give honor to your Alma Mater, and above all, give thanks to the Almighty. (Joy Perez)
