Mr Konstantin Makrelov inspired students to strive for greatness during his address.National Treasury Official Motivates Business Graduates
The Head of the Economic Modelling and Forecasting Unit of the National Treasury, Mr Konstantin Makrelov, delivered an inspirational keynote address to graduates of the College of Law and Management Studies.
He congratulated the class on their achievements and reminded them that they represented less than five per cent of all the students who started Grade 1, a factor which was slowing down economic growth in the country plagued by a shortage of skills.
In order to transform this bleak picture he encouraged the graduates to set challenging goals in different areas of their lives and achieve them because a degree alone was not adequate.
‘Being successful requires a combination of skills such as passion, hard work, love for what you do, self-confidence, humility, integrity and various other factors.’
Makrelov shared a few principles which have contributed to his success including constant self-reflection, adaptability, and foresight.
On self-reflection, he encouraged the graduates to work on developing an ability to internalise constructive criticism by others and to question their view of themselves.
‘If you are adaptable, you should feel equally comfortable and equally effective in working for the provincial government of KZN or a large corporate law firm in Sandton. High levels of adaptability allow you to be effective across different groups of people, not only in South Africa but across the world.
‘Many of you will choose to work for companies based on the salary they offer you now, rather than the growth opportunities and training they provide,’ he said, encouraging graduates to think ahead.
He encouraged them to strive to become loyal citizens of the country by becoming incorruptible business leaders which translated into economic prosperity.
Hazel Langa