Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, has called on students and young people to embrace self-reliance as a pathway to a more secure and productive future.
Pantami made the call while delivering a lecture at an event organized by Katsina State Institute of Technology and Management (KSITM), as part of activities marking its maiden convocation ceremony scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2026.
Addressing graduating and current students, he stressed that in developed countries, young people do not depend solely on government jobs. Instead, they create employment opportunities through innovation, creativity, and the application of knowledge in science and technology.
He advised students to adopt continuous learning, noting that knowledge and skills evolve rapidly, often within a five-year cycle. According to him, education without practical impact offers limited value in today’s world.
Pantami also emphasized the importance of respect for elders and authority, describing it as a critical factor for success in all aspects of life.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, Sani Abubakar Lugga, commended the institution’s leadership for incorporating motivational lectures into its convocation activities to encourage self-development among students.
He also acknowledged the contributions of former Katsina State Governor, Ibrahim Shema, for establishing the institution to promote modern education and technical skills.
Earlier, the Rector of KSITM, Musa Ahmed Zayyad, expressed appreciation to Pantami for honoring the invitation despite his tight schedule. He highlighted key achievements recorded within a year of his administration, including accreditation of courses and approval to run Higher National Diploma (HND) programmes.
The event also featured the presentation of awards to Pantami and Lugga, alongside recognition of stakeholders supporting the institution.
The convocation ceremony is expected to attract dignitaries from within and outside Katsina State.
