Too many confuse themselves chasing illusions
Decades ago whilst at university, I realized that I was not going to become a Doctor, Dentist or anything which required Math or Physics at university. It required an ability which I lacked and had to make realistic choices regarding my future plans.
Today, at universities we have students who fail and cannot manage their own expectations. Instead of pursuing something else or becoming a plumber or electrician etc. they disrupt the university when refused admission. Some are unable to accept their limits and instead of finding an alternate strength they disrupt the university.
Ironically, often the people who love talking about human rights etc. usually look down on plumbers and electricians etc. Little do they know that plumbers and electricians earn anywhere from R350 to R750 an hour depending on who they work for.
Yes, artisans are no different to other people. Recently a friend was at a relative’s house and admired a recently installed inverter. He inquired about cost and installer and was referred. Since both had a similar size house my friend expected a quote for the same product at the same rate. He was angry as the installer doubled the price since my friend lived in a better suburb. The point is that not everyone is meant to attend university. Also artisans are not all loveable working class, salt of the earth people. Some people are meant to fix cars and install air cons and that’s perfectly okay.
My brother has a university teaching degree but makes more money as a plumber and has never looked back. My auto-electrician who has a successful business, proudly displays his UCT Social Science degree on his workshop wall although it has nothing to do with his current line of business.
Whilst education is vital and we must strive to improve ourselves, we need to understand that our income or risq as it is stipulated in Islamic terms is determined by the Creator. Wealth generation is dependent on your ability but more-so by what has been ordained by the Creator. It has been said that your “risq” will find its way to you even if it is buried underneath a mountain. Also, that which is not meant for you will not reach you even if you feel it in the palm of your hand.
Those who make money by deceiving others and those who seek wealth through whatever means necessary must realize that they are harming themselves. To the striking students, everything cannot be the fault of someone else. Maybe you are just not clever enough to pass that university degree.
Perhaps it is time you consider a career in politics like I did.
Cllr Yagyah Adams
Cape Muslim Congress