“I have been working here for years”, “why have I not been promoted”? “This is the status quo” ……” This is how we do things around here” ….
These are common statements of “me ba ha atse” (MBA) holders. They resist change. They want to continue to do things the ‘old way’ and are not ready or willing to embrace ‘new ways’ of doing things; they continue in the manual and unprofessional ways of executing tasks. Some even go to the extent of plotting the downfall of young, dynamic, fresh-minded,
professional minds to bring change, vigour and efficiency.
These conspirators mentioned above will resist any form of change. They believe in the ways that afford them opportunities to ‘circumvent’ laid down procedures to line their pockets to the detriment of companies, organizations and even the State. Is this the kind of MBA we need in companies, both private and public? CERTAINLY NOT!
What we need are youthful, dynamic, ambitious, versatile, proactive, dedicated and action-oriented professionals with vision and mission, with that burning desire to transform private/public organizations and institutions. People with the right attitude, character, People who inspire hope, are able to move people along, dream a common dream, share a common vision all geared towards transformational leadership.
These categories of people hold Masters in Business Administration (MBA). MBA is a second degree that is pursued and awarded to candidates who have had a first degree (which offers general knowledge) and have a desire to specialize in an area, say, Human Resource Management.
For example, I have a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences (Economics & Geography) which affords me a general tertiary knowledge in managing resources both human and material. It is my desire to better manage these resources, especially human resource, hence my resolve to pursue and attain an MBA in Human Resource Management.
This is basically as a result of the present competitive nature of the job market which makes just being a first-degree holder less relevant. Even in the medical field, being a general practitioner is becoming less attractive hence the desire of doctors to specialize in one area or the other, for example, being a gynecologist (specialist in dealing with health care for women, especially the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the female reproductive organs), pediatrician (specialists in children) and others.
Another school of thought is that going the MBA way may not be the best way to go.
Why? Some MBA holders are very good on paper but find it extremely difficult to practically t in their positions. However, there are some first-degree holders who perform above expectations, people who are able to think on their feet, strategies, implement and transform their domain. After all, some achievers and inventors attained great feats with limited certificates. Mention could be made of the founder of Microsoft Corporation, Bill Gates and our own Pastor Mensa Otabil.
Now! The critical question here is, do employers go for the ME BA HA ATSEs, Master in Business Administration (MBA) holders, first degree holders or simply hire people who can deliver irrespective of one’s certificate, people with the right competencies, right attitudes and the right self-motivation. What do you think dear reader?
By Samuel Dzackah
