Don cautions graduating pupils against yielding to peer pressure

Prof. Muiz Alani Durosinmi, of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Ile Ife, Osun State, has cautioned graduating pupils of Ansar-Ud-Deen College, Isolo, Lagos, against yielding to social pressures from peer groups, and sundry influences in the society, saying doing so has the capacity to derail their academic pursuits.

Durosinmi, who chaired the valedictory service/graduation of the college, also reiterated the need for the students to strive hard, be prayerful and set clear goals for themselves, in their bid to achieve academic success, and attain lofty heights in life.

The university teacher told the graduating pupils, “You must consider yourselves lucky to have passed through this school. It is not enough to have good education and academic excellence; you must combine education with high moral foundation and cultural values. You should not allow the efforts of your parents to be in vain, by exposing yourselves to negative influences. Above all, be diligent in choosing friends or who you associate with.”

The college, Durosinmi, noted does not only seek to have its students excel in academic performances, but also interested in their moral uprightness and positive social behaviors.”

Principal of the school, Mr. Tajudeen Adebambo, urged the students to take seriously, the virtues of integrity, honesty, hard work and commitment, as these constitute the sound principles they require to achieve success in life and make their alma mater proud.

Guest speaker at the event, Dr. Tajudeen Yussuf, of the University of Lagos, charged the graduating pupils to gird their loins for serious academic exercises, and prepare themselves for the task ahead, by avoiding distractions and reckless online engagements provided by the social media and peer group networks.

According to him “You can make a success of yourself if you have a vision. Let your faith be in what you believe in, and have strong determination to live your dreams. Conceive great ideas and do not be swayed by the challenges you face. I urge you to let your mobile phones be a useful tool for education and communication only. Dream dreams to become entrepreneurs, business owners or investors.

Create your own jobs and make things happen.”In her remarks, the overall best graduating student, Aishat Adeogun, thanked her parents and teachers for their support and contributions towards building her future.