By Djinodji SOLMENGAR Rodrigue
Personal development coach Simon Ouédraogo has urged young people to rethink formal education. He argues that practical skills and entrepreneurship can offer another route to financial success.
Speaking during an interview in Chad, Ouédraogo advised young people from low-income families to consider leaving school after six years. That means completing primary education, or CM2, before turning to practical learning and business.
“If you are from a poor family, spending 20 years in school is very risky,” he said. “Learn what is essential, put it into practice and build a business.”
Why He Questions Formal Education
Ouédraogo based his argument on his personal experience. He said he left school early and turned to reading and self-education. He later entered the business world.
He now says he runs several companies and pays for his children’s education.
The coach also questioned whether school programmes prepare young people for the labour market.
“They have been teaching me things that the market does not want,” he said.
He urged young people to seek knowledge that responds to real economic needs. In his view, education should provide practical skills that people can use to earn a living.
A Message to Young Chadians
Ouédraogo also encouraged young people to make better use of Chad’s potential. He pointed to the country’s geographical position and natural resources as opportunities for entrepreneurship.
“Chad is very rich in terms of potential,” he said.
He also compared graduates without job opportunities to fish without water.
“You cannot be a graduate and have no opportunities. It is like a fish without water. When you are a fish, you belong in water.”
His message to young Chadians was direct: “Do not complain.”
Training Sessions in Chad
Ouédraogo is in Chad for a series of sessions on personal development, leadership and entrepreneurship.
On November 7, he is scheduled to lead a session at ONAMA. The event will examine how young people can use the country’s potential to build businesses and contribute to national development.
He will also hold a private seminar at M2E Polytechnic on November 8. The session will focus on metaphysics and what he describes as the laws of the universe and life.
Beyond his views on education, Ouédraogo says his work aims to help people understand themselves, identify their purpose and contribute to society.
His recommendations have raised questions about the value of formal education, practical skills and entrepreneurship. However, his call for young people to leave school after primary education reflects his personal position. It does not establish early school-leaving as a proven route to financial success.