Education undeniably serves as the foundation of a nation’s development. If the education sector can be reformed to emphasise practical studies and entrepreneurship, there’s the likelihood that young individuals will become self-reliant and creators of jobs. This is possible because they would have acquired technological knowledge and the skills needed for the future.
Education can indeed be the key to success if government at all levels establishes a technical support platform for undergraduates to learn how to apply their knowledge for the nation’s benefit.
Furthermore, education can be seen as a path to success when students receive high-quality education from experienced and renowned instructors. The government should prioritise hiring qualified teachers, pay competitive salaries, and equip schools with modern facilities. When students undergo such a learning process, education can genuinely be considered the gateway to success.
There is no doubt that education remains a fundamental challenge in every society. However, in Nigeria, the situation is quite different, with countless graduates seeking employment. In developed countries, students are encouraged to explore entrepreneurship and investment.
Current statistics reveal that Nigeria has around 25 million unemployed graduates, highlighting the government’s inability to provide employment for the vast number of graduates. Therefore, it’s crucial for government at all levels to create employment opportunities for our youth.
Nonetheless, the government is making efforts to address unemployment through various programmes, such as former President Muhammadu Buhari’s N-power initiative. This programme aims to reduce unemployment, but unfortunately, some beneficiaries misused the funds instead of investing in entrepreneurship.
Yes, education remains a pathway to success when individuals acquire practical skills. Many graduates fail to realise that skills can be more valuable than a certificate in the real world. The emphasis should shift from showcasing credentials to demonstrating one’s abilities and contributions to society.
In addressing the challenges plaguing our nation, we all need to step up because the government cannot single-handedly solve the problems. We must leverage the skills we’ve acquired to contribute to lasting solutions.
Ismail Mohammed,
Department of Mass Communication, Borno State University
