Failure is Another Perspective of Success; Asantehene to SOS Graduating Class
The King of the Asante Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has encouraged the 2024 graduating class of SOS-Hermann Gmeiner International College to brace themselves for what life has on its tray for them as they step out into the world full of uncertainties.
According to His Majesty, whatever challenges they encounter will serve as stepping stones on the path to their destiny and goal.
Speaking as the Guest of Honour at the 2024 SOS-HGIC Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, June 8, 2024, Otumfuo walked the graduands through the realities of life.
“Graduands, you are entering a world that is constantly changing and therefore requires creativity, resilience, adaptability and a unique perspective for innovation. Fortunately or unfortunately, these changes bring in its wing , a lot of challenges along with a more significant number of opportunities. All you must do is to be open-minded and be brave to make good decisions.
He counselled them to first identify their individual strengths and weaknesses, and then build relationships with people who complement their weaknesses.
He furthered, “Do not be afraid to take risks to fail and to try again. Remember that it is often through the most challenging times that we learn and grow the most. Know that each experience whether it results in success or failure will teach you invaluable lessons and bring you closer to your goals. Failure is another perspective of success. Fortunately for you, your teachers have devoted a lot of resources and attention to sharpen your knowledge, skills and competence in these areas.”
Most importantly, His Majesty stressed the need to cultivate discipline as they leave campus. Drawing inspiration from Morgan Scott Peck’s book ‘A Road Less Travelled’ he reminded the students of the importance of discipline.
“Be disciplined. Indeed continuous success cannot be achieved without discipline. M Scott Peck in his book, ‘A Road Less Travelled’ reminds us of the importance of discipline when he says ‘Discipline is the basic set of tools required to solve life’s problems. Without discipline, we can solve nothing. With only some discipline we can solve some problems. With total discipline, we can solve our problems. Discipline is indeed vital and cannot be overemphasized for the next phase of your development.”
Additionally, he encouraged the students to take advantage of the digital space and leverage it effectively to achieve their goals, noting that technology has opened many doors to various opportunities, both positive and negative.
He added. “Graduands, I encourage you all to go to the world and help produce the needed cutting-edge and scientific tools as far as the system that accelerates our economic growth, competitiveness and development is concerned.”
His Majesty also commended the staff and management of the school for their commitment to God and country through hard work and dedication.
Present at the event were the wife of the Asantehene, Lady Julia Osei Tutu and traditional authorities.
