By Mewueseter Emmanuella Gese.
A growing number of Nigerian graduates are abandoning their initial career paths to pursue different fields, often driven by the harsh realities of the job market and economic pressures. Despite studying fields like engineering, biochemistry, or library and information science, many find themselves in professions unrelated to their university degrees.
According to Dr. Ezekiel Ivagher, a lecturer at Benue State University, Makurdi, the dynamic nature of society and human minds contributes to this trend. Some students are offered admission into courses they didn’t apply for, leading to a lack of interest and focus in their studies. This, in turn, makes it challenging for them to graduate with good scores and secure jobs in their field.
The shift in career paths has intensified over the past two decades, coinciding with Nigeria’s economic challenges and the rise of digital jobs. Many graduates are now opting for entrepreneurship, tech, entertainment, or other booming industries.
An accounting graduate who turned to hairdressing shared that she struggled to find a well-paying job in her field and settled for a skill she had acquired during her studies.
Several factors contribute to this trend, including job market realities where many degree programs don’t align with Nigeria’s labor market needs. Economic pressures is another factor to consider. High unemployment rates force graduates to seek alternative careers.
Others are skill-based economy. Employers prioritize skills over degrees, encouraging graduates to reskill. Professional certifications like women empowerment schemes offer certifications and new career paths. Also worthy of consideration is entrepreneurship. Limited job opportunities lead some to start businesses in various fields. Internships and volunteering is also a key consideration as people gain experience in new fields through unpaid internships or volunteer roles.
The disconnect between Nigerian university education and the job market raises concerns about the relevance of higher education. Should universities revamp their curriculum to match industry demands, or should students prepare for alternative careers while in school? The answers to these questions may shape the future of education and employment in Nigeria.
