School Nah Scam Syndrome

 
By Toluwalase Oderinde

The 'School nah scam' syndrome is still very prominent among Nigerians. It is a popular refrain among students, parents, and even successful individuals who have achieved greatness without formal education in Nigeria. But what is really behind this sentiment?

For many, it's a feeling that the education system is broken. That it doesn't deliver on its promises of a better future or financial stability. With rising unemployment rates and the increasing success of self-made entrepreneurs, entertainers, and influencers, many are questioning whether the traditional path of higher education still holds the key to financial success.
But is education really a scam? Looking at some of the most successful people in the world. People like Jeff Bezos, Warren Buffett, Bill Gates, and the like - they all have college degrees. And it's not just about the piece of paper; their education gave them the skills and connections they needed to achieve their dreams. Bezos, for example, studied electrical engineering and computer science at Princeton. That foundation helped him build Amazon into the tech giant it is today.

A lot of people are yet to realize that what you become is not totally about the course you're studying. It is not about where you are, it is about what you are doing where you are.
Aliko Dangote, the founder of the Dangote Group, holds a degree in Business Studies and Administration from Al-Azhar University, Cairo. Dangote's academic background provided him with the foundational knowledge to build his business empire, demonstrating that education can be a significant asset in the world of business.

Layi Wasabi (Isaac Olayiwola) well known for his comedic skits on social media, studied Law at Bowen University. Although he is a qualified lawyer, his success has come from the entertainment industry, particularly through his skit-making career. His legal background often influences his comedy, showing that while his degree might not directly relate to his current career, it has enriched his content
way. Layi wasabi's story suggests that education still holds value, even if it doesn't always translate directly into wealth.
However, not everyone has achieved success through formal education. Olu Okeowo, a Nigerian investor and entrepreneur, dropped out of school due to financial difficulties but has still become a billionaire and philanthropist. Others like Cosmas Maduka, Alhaji Sanusi Dantata and so on.

Seyi Lasisi, a graduate of Olabisi Onabanjo University gave his perspective saying “I have never for once considered schooling a scam. Never. Despite the many stresses and associated difficulties attached to schooling in Nigeria, as someone who comes from a working-class background, being educated is the only way to become something. It's the sole way for progress”
Damola Egbeyemi a 400 level Linguistics student at Olabisi Onabanjo University, gave his contribution by saying “School is not a scam, but the school system and setting is a scam” he further explained by saying “What I meant is that the average school system is a scam, for example in Nigeria, the teachers and lecturers are not well paid, no upgrade of teaching equipment, No integration of new syllabus, imagine us still doing what they did in 1960, imagine performing art student still dancing up and down when their mates in other places are learning how to act and edit film properly. No motivation to go to school again, people prefer to engage in TikTok than going to school” When asked the reason why people will choose to engage in TikTok rather than going to school he responded “Because school is no longer valuable to them, they don't teach what we need in real life.”

The "School na scam" sentiment among Nigerians is a complex issue with valid arguments on both sides. While some individuals have achieved success without formal education, others have benefited from the skills, knowledge, and connections gained through education. However, education still holds value in providing opportunities, enriching skills, and fostering personal growth. Ultimately, success depends on individual efforts, adaptability, and resilience, regardless of educational background.


Toluwalase Oderinde is the Sub-Editor, Entertainment Desk at OOU Campus Mirror.