Students are constantly encouraged to build portfolios to showcase their skills and talents. However, the harsh reality is that many students are left to struggle with inadequate resources to develop these essential portfolios. This problem is particularly common in Malawi, where students in various fields of study face significant challenges in creating portfolios that can truly represent their capabilities.
Consider the example of a journalism student. A young aspiring journalist, full of passion and ideas, is tasked with creating a portfolio that will be crucial in securing internships or jobs after graduation. Yet, this student is expected to do so without access to the necessary resources, such as a decent camera, recording equipment, or even a stable internet connection.
Additionally, students often lack access to news outlets where they can distribute their articles and gain visibility. Without these essential tools and platforms, they are left with limited options for showcasing their work. How can we expect these students to compete on a global stage when they are not provided with the tools they need to succeed?
The problem extends beyond journalism. Students in fields such as computer science, graphic design, and engineering also face similar challenges. They are often required to work on complex projects and build portfolios that demonstrate their technical skills, yet they lack access to the software, hardware, or other resources necessary to complete these tasks effectively.
A computer science student, for example, might be required to develop a software application as part of their portfolio. However, without access to up-to-date computers or necessary programming tools, they are at a severe disadvantage.
This lack of resources not only hampers students ability to learn and practice their craft but also discourages them from pursuing their passions. When students see that they cannot produce work that meets industry standards due to inadequate resources, it can be demoralizing and lead to a lack of motivation. This, in turn, can result in a generation of graduates who are less prepared for the job market and less competitive on a global scale.
Moreover, the issue of inadequate resources is not just a problem for the students themselves, it reflects a broader issue within the education system. When educational institutions fail to provide students with the necessary tools to succeed, they are failing in their mission to prepare students for the future. This is especially concerning in a world where technology and innovation are rapidly advancing, and the job market is becoming increasingly competitive.
If we want our students to succeed and contribute meaningfully to society, we must ensure that they have access to the resources they need to build strong portfolios. This means investing in modern equipment, providing access to essential software, and offering platforms for dissemination, such as news outlets for journalism students.
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