Forty
years ago, if you had an ‘A’ level
qualification, it was possible to rise to the
top of any organisation simply based on your own
ability and competence. In the last few years,
I have met a number of people who, although highly
competent and effective in their roles within
the organisation, have been by-passed by others
with lesser abilities solely due to their lack
of a degree qualification.
One
of the fundamental truths about life is that “scarcity
creates value”, and the more scarce our
qualifications or ability, the higher the demand
or remuneration for these skills. Research also
shows that good looking people and even taller
people get paid higher as they are able to differentiate
themselves in the employment market! For the less
physically endowed people, the opportunity to
differentiate ourselves exists through better
qualifications such as undergraduate and post-graduate
degrees.
There
is also sometimes a mistaken notion that good
education is incompatible with entrepreneurship
and innovation. Whilst courage and a risk-taking
attitude are important to entrepreneurship, it
should not be forgotten that equally important
are self-discipline and self-confidence which
one gets naturally with a good education.
If
we looked at the acquisition of degrees as a personal
differentiation strategy to “market”
ourselves in the job market, the approach will
eventually lead us to become true life-long learners
as well.
Further,
we need to consider the present reality and the
fact that the true minimum qualification for managers
has moved from ‘A’ levels to a degree
today. In all likelihood, this minimum will move
further to a masters degree level within the decade
as well.
At
SIC, we have a very strong vision which is “Creating
Learning Opportunities for everyone.” We
provide opportunities to enable students to get
a practical and relevant degree in business, IT,
accounting and many other disciplines.
Our
qualifications lead you to many paths –
whether you wish to start your own business or
become a top executive in MNC or government.
Our
duty is to ensure that we provide you the right
opportunities to ensure your success in your careers.
May I wish you every success in the choice that
you make today and for your dreams to come true.
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