Renowned economic expert and business mentor Dr Joe Ngalle has schooled ICT University students on the essential steps to become influential entrepreneurs. The US-based expert delivered a lecture during a seminar on Friday, 21 March, at the respected institution’s campus in Yaoundé. The lecture, themed “From a small business to an empire”, provided a platform for students to learn about the attitude and entrepreneurial spirit required while studying.
Dr Joe Ngalle elaborated on the challenges Cameroon’s youth will face in the next five years if they fail to become job creators and remain job seekers. “Cameroon today comprises 65% of youths aged between 1 and 25, resulting in a high dependency ratio. We will face significant trouble in the next five years if nothing is done,” Ngalle stated, adding that “the government employs only 6% of the population, while the private sector employs 25%. This highlights a problem requiring an urgent solution.”
The expert warned that the country’s economy will struggle to absorb the growing number of job seekers, emphasizing the need for young people to develop entrepreneurial skills. “It is time for Cameroon’s youth to take up the challenge and develop an entrepreneurial mindset. They can start with small businesses like poultry farming, agriculture, or other petty businesses that can grow over time into real estate,” Ngalle remarked.
He emphasized the importance of discipline and focus in achieving goals. “To accomplish your objectives, you must be disciplined and focused. There are numerous opportunities available, and youths must capitalise on them,” Ngalle stated. The expert also encouraged students to be creative and innovative, identifying gaps in the market and developing solutions to address them.
Student Feedback
One student, Edimo, told the media, “I have learned a great deal from our father. This seminar has been an eye-opener, highlighting various opportunities available for youths to utilise and grow. I believe I have taken away the spirit of entrepreneurship from this event.”
Another student, expressed gratitude for the expert’s insights, saying, “Dr Joe Ngalle’s lecture was inspiring and motivating. It has given me the confidence to pursue my business ideas and create jobs for myself and others.”
ICT University’s Vision
It is worth noting that the ICT University’s vision is to train job creators, not job seekers. Over the years, the university has trained numerous students who have excelled in business, information technology, agritech, software development, and other fields. The university’s emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation has equipped students with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in today’s competitive business environment.
By inspiring students to become entrepreneurs, Dr Joe Ngalle and the ICT University are contributing to Cameroon’s economic development and growth. As the country faces the challenges of a rapidly changing economic landscape, it is essential that young people are equipped with the skills and mindset required to succeed.