It's Never Too Late

I have been practicing health and safety for more than 9 years now. Holding a Diploma in Electronics Engineering and Bachelor's in Business Administration, I never thought of choosing this career. I attempted the NEBOSH IGC examination following advice of my father and I came out with flying colors. The course ignited my mind and I gradually developed interest in OHS. Subsequently I moved to United Arab Emirates as a field safety officer. The job was challenging, both mentally and physically. Those were the days; I realized the value of formal OHS education.

I enrolled for NEBOSH IDip in 2019. Unfortunately, I found excuses, about work pressure and family commitments to escape from pursuing this qualification. A year later, I got married and family moved to UAE with me. COVID, delayed salaries, salary deductions, all these added considerable financial burden on me. I dropped the idea of continuing the IDip.

In late 2021, I met a new colleague Douglas F. D. . This man inspired me with his commitment and passion for learning. He is the one who proved me "It's never too late". Following his advises and listening to his career stories I regained enthusiasm and enrolled for IDip again in December 2022. It was not too late after I started the course, I realized that a new family member is on his way. My wife Bhagyasree VS , my all-time supporter, just advised me to continue the studies. Initially it was all manageable, but later I even had to write the answer document from the bystander's bed in maternity ward. With consistent efforts and hard work, I successfully completed 2 papers in the first attempt. We were blessed with a baby boy, during my 3rd paper examination. I couldn't manage it and didn't succeed in that attempt. Had to wait for another 6 months for the next attempt. Meanwhile the my new-born little cutie pie has stressed my late-night studies with his cries ??.

I attempted the 3rd paper November last year. Almost waited 50 working days to get my results. On my birthday (11th Feb), morning I received the results for the 3rd and final paper and that is a PASS. One of most valuable birthday "gift" I have earned in my life. I thank all my friends and family members who have supported me in this learning process. I write article hoping that my story might inspire someone - "It's never too late".

Jishnu Prakash