“If you want to make good use of your time, you’ve got to know what’s most important and then give it all you’ve got.”
Lee Iacocca
What Is Prioritisation?
Prioritisation means deciding which tasks matter most and which can wait. It’s about focusing your energy on what will have the greatest impact and not wasting time stressing over less important tasks. When done right, it helps you move forward rather than get stuck trying to do everything at once.
The Problem: Trying to Do Everything at Once
Many African students know the pressure of juggling university, family, social life, and work. Take a student at the University of Buea in Cameroon—between a term paper, a part-time restaurant job, and helping with a family event, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Trying to do everything at once often leads to stress and underperformance.
Chidinma’s Story: From Overwhelmed to Organised
Chidinma, a 22-year-old student from Lagos, was studying business administration while working weekends to pay tuition. With exams approaching, a group project due, and her mother’s wedding to help plan, she tried handling everything at once. The result? Exhaustion and slipping grades.She paused, reassessed, and prioritised. She focused first on her paper (nearest deadline), then scheduled group work, and reserved one evening a week for her mom. By narrowing her focus, she aced her exams and supported her family, without burning out.
How to Prioritise Like a Pro
Identify Your Most Important Tasks
What will help me achieve my goals today, this week, or this semester? Whether it’s studying for exams or preparing for an internship, knowing what matters most is the first step.
Break Tasks into Manageable Pieces
Large tasks can feel impossible. Break them down into small steps like:
- Research (1 hr)
- Write introduction (1 hr)
- Draft body (3 hrs)
- Proofread (2 hrs)
Tariq’s Story: Tackling a 50-Page Thesis
In Kampala, Tariq was daunted by a 50-page thesis. He broke it into daily 2-hour sessions by section—introduction, literature review, methods. This strategy helped him finish ahead of time, stress-free.
Use Time Blocks
Set specific hours to focus on one task at a time. For example, block out 9 AM–12 PM for studying, then use the afternoon for work. This method improves focus and productivity.
Learn to Say No
Not every invitation or request deserves a “yes.” Politely declining distractions helps protect your priorities.
Amina’s Story: Social Butterfly Turned Scholar
Amina, a student in Accra, loved social events. But during exams, she learned to say no to frequent invites. She focused on studying, excelled in her exams, and reconnected with friends afterward, on her terms.
Conclusion: Prioritisation Equals Progress
University life across Africa, whether in Nigeria, Ghana, Uganda, or Cameroon, is demanding. Learning to prioritise is your secret weapon. Focus on what matters, break tasks down, block your time, and protect your focus. That’s how you succeed—without the burnout.
Are you having challenges prioritising tasks? What prioritisation tip spoke to you the most? Have you resolved to apply these time management tips? Do you have a time management tip that works best for you?
Drop your response in the comment section. We would love to hear what works for you and how this post has influenced your thinking!
