Online Reporter
Latwell Nyangu
Youth Interactive Writer
The best yardstick for our progress is not other people, but ourselves.
Yet, when you are a student still under the care of your parents and guardians, there is a need to be taught how life should be faced.
Some may argue that no one should dictate how to think, but children who lack guidance often find themselves lost along the way. I wish every student would ask themselves, “Am I better than I was yesterday?” As long as you go to bed at night as a better person than the one who woke up that morning, you have succeeded.
There is life in college, and there is life after college, however, many students have a narrow view of what lies ahead.
As it is said, train a child in the way they should go, and when they are old, they will not depart from it.
I wholeheartedly agree with this sentiment, as it plays a crucial role in shaping children’s futures.
This week, I come in peace, reflecting on the many unfortunate events that have befallen my fellow students.
Some have been arrested, some have tragically lost their lives, others have succumbed to drug use or engaged in destructive behaviours, while some have dropped out of college.
I have often come here, guns blazing, blaming my fellow students.
But upon reflection, I realise that the absence of parental guidance has led some of us down a dark path.
As I observe the lives of students on and off campus, I recognise that the transition from childhood to adulthood is accompanied with challenges. For many students, the lack of parental guidance intensifies these difficulties.
This dilemma is particularly pronounced in college settings, where the absence of support can lead to a cascade of academic, emotional and social issues.
In college, students are expected to excel, but without parental guidance, many feel ill-equipped for this transition.
The absence of encouragement can diminish motivation.
A student lacking parental support may not appreciate the value of their education, leading to disengagement.
This disengagement often spirals into a cycle of underperformance, eroding self-esteem and bringing a belief that they are incapable of academic success.
The emotional toll of lacking parental guidance is painful.
Students often experience heightened anxiety, depression and feelings of isolation.
Without parental figures to provide reassurance and advice, these emotions normally intensify, making it difficult to seek help.
In social situations, the lack of guidance hinders the development of healthy coping mechanisms.
Many students resort to negative behaviours, such as substance abuse or unhealthy relationships, in an attempt to fill the void left by their parents.
This not only damages their mental health but also impairs their ability to form meaningful connections with fellow students.
Socially, students without guidance usually struggle to build and maintain friendships.
They might lack essential social skills or the ability to overcome conflicts effectively.
Usually during group projects, students without parental support might feel uncomfortable voicing their challenges or asserting themselves, leading to feelings of inadequacy.
Off-campus, the situation can be even more precarious.
Students living alone or with friends often find it challenging to manage household responsibilities and finances.
A lack of parental guidance mostly leave them ill-prepared for the realities of daily life, balancing budgets and managing time effectively.
These challenges contribute to stress and a sense of being overwhelmed, further isolating them from their fellow students.
While the campus environment offers a cushion, providing a sense of togetherness among students, the harsh realities of life is usually hard hitting.
As the saying goes, “Life is a cruel teacher; it gives the test first and the lesson afterward. This is particularly true for students lacking parental guidance, who often find themselves facing overwhelming challenges alone.
Sadly, instead of seeking help, many students take risks and engage in reckless behaviour to cope with their struggles.
In the end, the blame usually goes to them something which people usually ignore to consider.
The dilemma of lacking parental guidance impacts not only academic performance but also emotional health and social development.
To parents and guardians, as we reflect on these challenges, let us remember the importance of nurturing the next generation.
It takes a village to raise a child,” and we must strive to be that village for students.
Let us advocate for the guidance and support that every student deserves.
Until we meet again for a toast to progress.
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