With a Doctorate in Philosophy and many decades of experience, I have consistently embraced the principle of not speaking about my skills —a value deeply rooted in my cultural background. Philosophy has shaped my thoughts and actions, but I have consciously avoided resting on past achievements or self-bestowed accolades. Instead, I have committed to continuous learning, recognising that staying relevant in any field requires ongoing education and skill enhancement.
The necessity of ongoing education becomes particularly evident when examining the qualifications of some professionals in rural areas. In my observations, some so-called professionals in small—to medium-sized fringe organisations in these regions often lack the depth of knowledge and expertise required to provide high-quality services. This discrepancy highlights a critical need for continuous professional development to ensure our experts remain competent and effective. It’s not their fault all the time; it is about us having the ability to find, retain and train the right staff with the aptitude for ongoing education.
Some may view my dedication to lifelong learning as an inefficient use of time, suggesting alternatives such as travelling, socialising, or focusing solely on financial gain. While these are legitimate pursuits, my perspective emphasises the importance of ongoing education as a vital component of professional relevance and personal growth. Expanding one’s knowledge and skills is not merely a luxury but a necessity in today’s ever-evolving world.
In my various roles I have noted how people are promoted into positions not because of their skills but who they know. In professions such as health it can cause grievous harm to clients. Regardless of one’s career path it’s important to stay up to date. For instance, in the last six months, I have completed a career preparation course in medical studies and several psychology courses in addition to my other high level qualifications. I didn’t do it so I can transition into a medical profession but to remain informed and relevant in my advisory roles. My work experiences over time, underscored the disparity in qualifications among professionals in some rural regions, where the lack of ongoing high quality education and employing people for their skills and not family or whanau affiliations contributes to suboptimal service delivery.
For example, nurses may be competent in their clinical duties, but that does not necessarily mean they possess the skills to manage or run an organisation effectively. Similarly, an individual with presumed cultural competence yet lacking the necessary medical or psychological qualifications cannot be promoted to roles such as General Practitioner, Nurse Manager, Psychologist, or Organizational Manager solely based on personal connections. Likewise, an accountant, engineer, or lawyer cannot be considered a true professional without the essential education and training. While life experiences are valuable, they do not suffice to establish expertise. Ongoing education is necessary to ensure individuals are adequately prepared and qualified for their respective fields.
Ongoing education transcends age, intelligence quotient (IQ), or initial educational background. It extends beyond formal university education, opening new doors to perspectives that can significantly transform one’s mindset and approach to professional and personal life. By investing in continuous education, professionals can cultivate personal growth, gain a competitive edge, and enhance their ability to tackle emerging challenges.
Let me finish by saying the journey of learning should be lifelong. It fosters an enriched worldview, better-preparing individuals for future uncertainties. Whether through formal education, professional courses, or self-directed learning, the commitment to lifelong education is a testament to an individual’s dedication to growth and excellence. Therefore, no matter one’s place in the world, embracing ongoing education is imperative for personal development and professional efficacy. Continuous learning reshapes individual futures and elevates the quality of services provided, particularly in rural areas where the need for qualified professionals is often most acute.
-Jessica Sneha Gray
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