“Your Hands, Mind and Attitude Matter More Than the Certificate” — Prof. Hamidatu Darimani

The Vice Chancellor of Dr Hilla Liman Technical University, Professor Hamidatu Darimani has urged graduating artisans to place greater emphasis on practical competence, creativity and character than on the certificates they have obtained.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony for artisans who received National Skills Qualifications at the Wa Technical Institute, Prof. Darimani said the true value of their training would be demonstrated through what they could do with their hands, how they applied their knowledge and the attitude they brought to their work.

“Your hands, your mind and your attitude matter more than the certificate,” Prof. Darimani said.
She explained that while certificates were important as evidence of training and qualification, they alone could not guarantee success in the world of work.

According to her, the graduates must translate their training into quality services, innovative ideas and responsible professional conduct to create sustainable opportunities for themselves.

Prof. Darimani urged the artisans to focus on three key attributes which include competence, creativity and character as they begin applying their skills in their respective trades.

She described skills as an economic asset that could provide individuals with opportunities to earn income and become financially independent.

“A skills man is a rich man. If you have skills and you are not rich, then there is a problem,” she said.

She encouraged the graduates to continuously improve their skills and remain innovative in order to stay relevant in an increasingly competitive working environment.

Prof. Darimani also emphasised the importance of personal conduct and professionalism, reminding the graduates that their behaviour would influence how customers and the wider public perceive their work.

“Your skill is your currency; your attitude is your brand,” she said.
She therefore called on the graduates to protect their reputation by demonstrating discipline, integrity, commitment and respect in their dealings with clients and colleagues.

Prof. Darimani said the graduation should mark the beginning of a new phase in which the artisans transform their acquired skills into productive livelihoods and contribute to the development of their communities.

She urged them not to depend solely on formal employment but to consider entrepreneurship and the creation of businesses that could also provide opportunities for others.

The graduates were trained in various technical and vocational trades and received National Skills Qualifications as recognition of their acquired competencies.