This is with reference to the report “From security guard to university professor” (Feb. 24). It was very nice and inspiring report. It is very true that hard work always pays off. It might take some time for a person to see his/her efforts bearing fruit but at the end of the day that person always emerges successful. It is just a matter of proper focus on one’s goals and taking the right steps in the right direction. I wish Arab News published more such reports, as these real-life stories help an individual move forward without losing hope. Actually, the problem youths in our part of the world are faced with is a lack of guidance. I have noticed that in our countries, Middle East and the subcontinent, youngsters tend to follow global trends. There was a time when everybody wanted to become doctor or engineer. A time came when everybody was getting into computers then arrived the trend of MBA and CA. This is a very wrong trend and needs to be addressed properly. Our youths need proper guidance.

Muhammad Azlan

Jeddah