Thyolo, Malawi – October 17, 2024
His Excellency Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, President of the Republic of Malawi, delivered an inspiring speech at the 5th graduation ceremony of the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST), emphasizing the importance of conscientiousness for personal and professional success.
Before a crowd of proud parents, institution, and graduating students, President Chakwera articulated the distinct meanings of consciousness, conscience, and conscientiousness, highlighting that conscientiousness is the key skill graduates must cultivate.
“Today, I want to bring to your attention the skill of conscientiousness,” he stated. “To be conscientious means to pay meticulous attention to detail in both your actions and surroundings. This is a useful skill because people who do not pay attention miss out on important developments.”
President Chakwera urged graduates to stay informed about significant national events, reminding them, “Every time Parliament meets, your MPs are passing laws which you are required to obey. Yet so many of us don’t even pay attention to what laws are being passed.”
He cited recent events, including the European Union’s resumption of direct budgetary support to Malawi and a state visit from the President of India, as critical developments that graduates should keenly observe. “You need to know what agreements I am signing on your behalf,” he stressed, highlighting the necessity for engagement with current affairs.
Addressing the theme of opportunity, President Chakwera encouraged the graduates to cultivate a mindset that recognizes potential where others see obstacles. “As I was inspecting the exhibits, I was impressed by graduates who created a company making products from minerals,” he said. “Opportunities are all around you; you must train your mind to see them.”
He also warned graduates about the consequences of overlooking errors. “If you submit a paper without proofreading it, you will submit it with errors that will cost you,” he cautioned, underscoring the importance of diligence throughout their careers.
Former MUST graduate and now co-founder of the mineral-based product company, Grace Mtembe, expressed her appreciation for the President’s advice. “Hearing President Chakwera emphasize the need for conscientiousness really resonated with me,” she remarked. “As young entrepreneurs, we have to stay vigilant and open to opportunities every day.”
The ceremony concluded with heartfelt congratulations to the graduates for their hard work and determination. “Congratulations to each of you for the journey you are about to start to show the world what it means to be a MUST graduate of excellence,” President Chakwera declared, before wishing the graduates success in their future endeavors.
As the graduates tossed their caps in the air, excitement filled the air, a testament to their readiness to embrace the challenges ahead with conscientiousness and resolve.
