Amidst rising unemployment, soaring school fees and the growing demand for skilled labour, many Nigerian youths are caught between two choices: staying in school to earn certificates or learning practical skills to survive in a tough economy.
Weekend Hope speaks with some individuals on which is better.
Excerpts:
I think schooling is the best. Because degrees open doors to better jobs and careers. And then graduates often earn money than non-graduates.
You gain more knowledge in your field, because for me in school, I meet different people and build connections that can help my career.
My answer is both schooling and skills. Both play major roles in youth development and each has clear benefits .
Educated youths are more likely to understand civic duties, human rights and national development issues.
Combining formal education with practical skills equips youth with both theoretical knowledge and employable competencies such as fashion designing, hair styling, carpentry, welding among others that can lead to immediate income, making them more adaptable and productive in today’s economy.
Ibrahim Olanipekun
Skills acquisition is a more practical and effective pathway for youths in Nigeria than formal schooling, especially in the face of rising unemployment and limited white-collar job opportunities.
Hands-on skills in technology, agriculture, craftsmanship, creative industries and vocational trades enable young people to earn a living, become self-reliant and even create jobs for others without waiting for scarce salaried employment.
In a country where many graduates remain jobless, skills-focused training responds directly to market needs, reduces poverty and empowers youths to contribute meaningfully to economic growth, making it a more realistic solution to Nigeria’s current socio-economic challenges.
The debate over schooling versus skills for youths in Nigeria is not a question of choosing one over the other, but understanding how each fits into the country’s realities.
Formal schooling remains vital because it builds literacy, critical thinking, civic awareness and a foundation for lifelong learning. Education also opens doors to professional careers, research, leadership and policy-making, which are essential for national development.
However, skills acquisition is increasingly crucial in addressing Nigeria’s unemployment and underemployment challenges. Practical skills in areas such as technology, agriculture, construction, creative industries and vocational trades provide youths with immediate pathways to self-reliance and entrepreneurship. Many young Nigerians are already earning livelihoods through digital and technical skills without long years of formal education.
Ultimately, the most effective approach is a strong blend of schooling and skills—an education system that integrates practical, market-relevant skills into formal learning, empowering youths to be both employable and innovative in Nigeria’s economy.
Education is better, because it exposes you to different cultures and viewpoints.
You learn to adjust to a new environment and challenges. Also, a degree can earn you respect from others.
Education can open doors to study or work abroad.
Education is the best, it boosts self esteem and confidence – you will learn to think critically and solve complex problems.
Further education can lead to promotion and career growth.
Achieving a degree can be a huge accomplishment and source of pride.
Skills are better for youths than schooling alone. Skills give financial confidence and the ability to earn income independently. Unlike schooling, which mainly prepares students to seek jobs, skills teach youths how to create value and survive in any economy.
Schooling gives knowledge, but skills give freedom. For youths to truly succeed, skills should come first or at least go hand in hand with education.
Skills help you to earn while you are learning but school never does.