Educationist Encourages Professionals to Embrace Career Risks for Growth

An education expert, Nkechi Fakoya, has encouraged professionals and entrepreneurs to embrace calculated risks in their careers instead of allowing fear to limit their growth and opportunities.

Speaking during an interview with journalists in Lagos, Fakoya explained that many professionals remain stagnant because they are unwilling to step outside their comfort zones or take strategic risks that could improve their careers and businesses.

Fakoya, who serves as a principal in a boarding school, noted that her training at HARDE Business School helped her gain confidence, leadership skills, and better business understanding in the education sector.

According to her, one of the most impactful parts of the programme was the Finance for Business Leaders module, which taught her how to assess and manage financial risks effectively.

She explained that the programme helped her better understand the business side of running educational institutions and improved her ability to make informed decisions.

Fakoya also highlighted the importance of leadership and negotiation skills in education management. She stated that the negotiation course provided practical strategies for resolving situations where both parties must reach mutually beneficial outcomes.

She added that sessions on artificial intelligence, design thinking, and critical thinking strongly aligned with the innovative learning practices already being implemented in her school, which operates as a Google Reference School.

The educationist encouraged other professionals to participate in similar training programmes, stressing that fear of taking important risks can prevent long-term business and career growth.

Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of HARDE Business School, Dami Oguntunde, explained that many professionals are often placed in leadership positions without receiving adequate preparation or support.

He said the institution developed flexible and practical learning systems powered by technology to help professionals acquire job-ready and leadership skills more effectively.

According to Oguntunde, the Business Leadership Executive Programme equips participants with practical knowledge in decision-making, team leadership, business development, and personal effectiveness.

He added that the programme also creates opportunities for professionals to connect with a wider learning community focused on building stronger organisations across different industries.

The school revealed that it has trained over 45,000 learners within four years and awarded thousands of certificates. It also reported higher-than-average course completion rates due to the use of interactive and gamified learning methods.

Oguntunde further disclosed that several participants secured employment opportunities shortly after completing courses on the platform.

He also announced the launch of a free Entry-Level Professional Course designed to equip young professionals with workplace skills such as communication, personal effectiveness, critical thinking, and AI workflow knowledge.

According to him, the programme has already attracted nearly 500 applicants before its official commencement, with between 200 and 250 participants expected to be admitted for the four-week training. Outstanding participants will also be linked to internship and entry-level job opportunities through the institution’s partner network.