Someone from Sokoto wanted to see me but his friend from Niger State told him that the governor had travelled. “He’s gone for a leadership course at Harvard,” his friend said.
But the Sokoto businessman was surprised. “Why is someone who’s already a governor going to school?”
The curiosity expressed by the Sokoto businessman regarding my attendance at a Harvard executive leadership programme underscores a larger, more profound question: Why does an established leader seeks further education?
The query is not just intriguing but also reflective of the broader perspective on continuous learning, especially in leadership roles. It’s essential to address why anyone, especially a Muslim, would pursue education, irrespective of their socioeconomic status.
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Islamic teachings strongly advocate for lifelong learning, emphasising that the quest for knowledge is mandatory from cradle to grave. This principle forms the bedrock of my belief in continuous learning and improvement. As the governor of Niger State, my decision to attend Harvard wasn’t impromptu but a strategic step towards enhancing my leadership skills.
The reasons are manifold, but let’s delve into the three most compelling ones. Case Studies: A Mirror to Real-World Challenges Harvard’s approach to learning through case studies is both innovative and enlightening. These real-world scenarios offer invaluable insights into the complex issues leaders face. It’s like walking a mile in another leader’s shoes, understanding their challenges, decision-making processes and outcomes.
This method provides a unique opportunity to analyse and critique these decisions, offering a rare glimpse into various leadership styles and their effectiveness. Statistics from Harvard Business School illustrate the impact of this approach. A staggering 80 per cent of Harvard’s curriculum is dedicated to case studies, encompassing over 2,000 case studies each year.
This immersive method ensures that leaders are not merely theoretical in their learning but are exposed to real-life scenarios that test their judgment, ethics, and decision-making skills.
Diversity: A confluence of global perspectives
The diversity at Harvard is not just about nationalities but a confluence of experiences, backgrounds, and philosophies. This melting pot of cultures and ideas is a microcosm of our increasingly interconnected world. During my time at Harvard, I interacted with leaders from over 60 countries, each bringing a unique perspective to the table. According to Harvard University’s statistics, international students make up about 23 per cent of the total student body, illustrating the institution’s commitment to diversity. This exposure is invaluable. It fosters a greater understanding of global issues, encourages empathy, and broadens one’s perspective – essential qualities for any leader in today’s globalised world.
Experience: Learning from the veterans
Harvard’s legacy in shaping leaders is unassailable. Their experience in curating leadership programmes is enriched by decades of research, teaching, and direct engagement with global leaders. Harvard’s faculty are not just educators but thought leaders who have contributed significantly to their fields. A report by the Harvard Business Review highlighted that effective leadership development programmes must include customised learning, application of knowledge, and an enabling environment for growth. Harvard excels in these areas, offering a platform where theory meets practice, and learning is tailored to address the individual needs of leaders.
Conclusion: A commitment to Niger State
My journey to Harvard was driven by my commitment to serve the people of Niger State effectively and efficiently. Leadership, especially in the public sector, demands a dynamic approach, one that is adaptive and responsive to the changing needs of our people.
The knowledge and perspectives gained from Harvard are not just academic achievements but tools that will enable me to fulfill the promises made to our citizens. Whether it’s about making informed policy decisions, fostering economic growth, or ensuring social welfare, the lessons learned are directly applicable to the challenges we face in Niger State. The world is evolving rapidly, and as leaders, we must evolve with it.
The pursuit of knowledge is not just an individual endeavour but a public service. By enhancing our skills and understanding, we are better equipped to lead our communities towards prosperity and stability. In a globalised world, the challenges we face are increasingly complex and interconnected. It is no longer sufficient to rely solely on past experiences or traditional methods of governance.
Continuous learning, exposure to diverse perspectives, and understanding global best practices are crucial for effective leadership. In conclusion, my stint at Harvard is more than just personal growth. It’s a step towards fulfilling my duty to the people of Niger State. It symbolises my commitment to bringing world-class leadership and governance to our state.
It’s about being the best version of a leader I can be, for the betterment of our society and the future of Niger State. This journey of learning is not just about acquiring knowledge but about transforming it into actionable strategies that benefit our people. It’s about understanding the intricacies of governance, economic development, and social welfare from a global perspective and adapting those learnings to our local context.
Bago is the governor of Niger State
