IN a message that has inspired over 1,300 graduating students at Valley View University in Ghana, President Hakainde Hichilema has revealed that the 15 times he was incarcerated before becoming the seventh Head of State, gave him impetus to restore the rule of law in Zambia.
He urged the 1,324 graduating students to regard hardships in life as an opportunity for greater opportunities.
President Hichilema was conferred with an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters by Valley View University, at a colourful ceremony on Friday.
The prestigious ward acknowledged his exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to democratic values and remarkable contribution to the social economic development of Zambia.
The President said the hardships he went through was an opening for him to restore the rule of law as he well understood the injustice that prevailed while in prison.
He narrated to the gathering yesterday that such an experience was God’s way of allowing him to attain the highest office and further encouraged the students to see suffering as an opportunity for better opportunities.
“I was in prison 15 times before attaining public office, little did I know that God was allowing me to enter the highest office that I have now used to restore the rule of law because they had accused me of something I didn’t do,” he said.
He said leadership was a huge burden, but with a positive attitude anyone could manage it, stating that one’s background did not limit success.
He also commended Valley View University for imparting positivity into the students because it was among the good ingredients that made good leaders.
University Chief of Staff Frema Opare praised President Hichilema for his dedication to improving Zambia’s economy.
Ms Opare noted that since Mr Hichilema attained office, he has made significant milestones such as the free education policy and increase of the Constituency Development Fund among other issues.
“We have followed keenly, Mr President, how you have reinforced international relationships and enhanced private sector engagements, and we commend you for that,’ she said.
Zambia and Ghana recently penned debt restructuring deals with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and official creditors of around US$3 billion each to aid the performances of their economies. – ZANIS
