By Rofiat Abdulkadir
As often echoed in our community, particularly by today’s teenagers, the sentiment persists that “school is a scam.” However, my response to this common saying is a resounding “No.” I can provide numerous reasons to support this perspective. Let me briefly highlight a few of them:
First and foremost, school serves as a vital institution where learning activities take place. It originated from Western civilization and has had a profound impact on society since its inception.
Moreover, education has been the catalyst for various forms of civilization. It has transformed the way people live and has contributed to the development of the sciences that underpin many of our daily activities.
Additionally, the prevailing notion that education is a scam, especially among many Nigerians today, often stems from the frustration of numerous graduates grappling with the challenges they encounter. Many struggle in tertiary institutions, striving to achieve high CGPAs and, ultimately, success. While some fortunate individuals emerge with first-class honors, others find themselves facing difficult circumstances.
It is disheartening to witness many of these graduates struggling to find employment. Some resort to becoming tricycle or bicycle riders, while others wander aimlessly without a tangible job.
However, it is unfair to blame the concept of school or education for these challenges. This situation often arises from the mindset of some of our graduates, who enter school with the sole objective of obtaining certificates to secure a job. It is essential to recognize that a certificate alone should not be the sole determinant of success. Instead, students should approach education with the intention of learning and gaining valuable experiences.
Furthermore, not all courses pursued in educational institutions require the government to provide employment. Many graduates can embark on their careers based on the skills and knowledge they acquire during their studies.
In conclusion, school is not a scam. Rather, it is a matter of existing in a region where job opportunities are scarce. From my observation, school may be perceived as a scam only by those who focus solely on obtaining a degree, without complementing it with practical skills. Therefore, it is accurate to assert that “School is not a scam.”