South Sudan's English Daily Newspaper
"We Dare where others fear"
By Aluong Maker Aluong
A graduate of the University of Juba has encouraged young people who have not yet secured well-paid jobs to consider starting small businesses that can sustain them.
James Waya Agok, a graduate who runs a photocopying centre at Western Campus, stated that young individuals should embark on entrepreneurial ventures for their own benefit.
Agok graduated in 2022 and initially worked for someone else at the photocopying centre. After accumulating savings from his modest wages, he managed to buy his own computer and establish his own photocopying centre in 2023.
“It has been three years now that I have been working independently. My photocopying centre has everything necessary to be considered an independent business,” Agok told the Dawn newspaper in an exclusive interview.
He expressed that this bold decision has positively impacted his life in several ways, including paying school fees for his younger brothers, providing for his family, and covering medical expenses.
“It takes me just a month to raise the fees for my two brothers. This confirms that my computer skills are immensely beneficial to me.
Although being focused on this work means I may not pursue other lucrative opportunities, I do not regret choosing this skilled trade because it provides me with daily income,” Agok declared.
He lamented that South Sudanese people often struggle with entrepreneurship, which contributes to disappointment when foreigners decide to close their businesses due to various concerns, such as insecurity and ethical considerations. Last year, many faced starvation when individuals from Sudan closed their shops out of fear for their safety.
He reiterated that staying busy with micro-businesses can lead to better job opportunities. “Why? Because searching for a job also requires financial stability,” he explained.
Agok noted that there are times when his monthly earnings from his entrepreneurial endeavours decline. He is content with the modest amount he makes, which is roughly 100 USD, though it can sometimes exceed that.
He candidly acknowledged the minor setbacks that can hinder success in micro-businesses, which may discourage some people from continuing. For example, long holidays for senior students can decrease monthly income. However, he believes that with business knowledge, one can overcome these downturns and continue to thrive. “Don’t let challenges hold you back.”
“Let’s not wait for well-paid jobs; instead, let’s begin the journey of our lives. You can be a well-qualified graduate like me but remain unfortunate for more than five years without landing a well-paid job. What will happen after some time without money? You will inevitably resort to asking those who have it, and your dignity will diminish,” Agok concluded.
