Breaking the Mold: Why Nigerian Students Need Flexible Education Systems

Did you know you could become a millionaire if you are fortunate enough to have an education system that gives room for working alongside schooling? This was the conclusion highlight of a recent survey carried out across different tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

Although some specific institutions, including both private and public, might have shown a little hope in supporting a work and schooling system, there are still observable limitations in the system that do not guarantee an exactly convenient atmosphere to work and study. These limitations make it difficult for students to sign up or settle for a moderate, sustainable income source that can keep them afloat financially.

While some schools incorporate work and study options that leverage job opportunities like junior lab assistants, junior secretaries within school offices, and schooling hours, the system still does not work in total favour for students, as most of their classes are fixed without consideration for the system.

A scheme released by the University of Ibadan has also shown that there is a similar system for UI students who are interested in such opportunities. Beyond the programmed work and study system provided by some schools, there are also instances like part-time studies and distance learning in some institutions that encourage work and study.

The part-time study mode is known to accommodate time for other commitments beyond studying. Unlike the regular 3-4 year course dedicated to studying, the part-time mode often requires longer extensions, like 6-7 years, depending on the course of study. Students in this setting dedicate a few weeks or months every year to study, giving them enough time to focus on other activities.

Distance learning, on the other hand, is an online studying method that has emerged over time in different universities following the continuous advancement in technology. While the part-time means of study and distance learning could have been the perfect go-to for students interested in a seamless work and study system, there are limited available courses associated with the system.

The unavailability of all courses for study in this system explains why almost 70% of tertiary institution students still settle for a conventional institution while in pursuit of academic achievements. However, it is also discovered that some other few are not aware of such a schooling system. 

Okunola Opeyemi, a graduate of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), has mentioned that if opportunity again to start her academic journey all over, she would still choose the Open University.

“I believe other schools can adopt the Open University system, especially for working professionals and those who need learning schedules. With the advancement in technology now, online and distance learning can be effectively integrated into traditional institutions providing more opportunities for people who cannot commit to full-time studies.

“I was able to work effectively while earning my degree at the Open University. This would have been close to impossible in traditional universities. For me, I would say a flexible system will reduce the financial strain of being a full-time student without income,” Opeyemi said. 

A statistical report from 2023 has shown that NOUN has the largest enrollment of over half a million students when compared with other institutions. However, a breakdown of the Statista representation in 2019 revealed that 30-34% of Nigerian students are enrolled in the Open University. The remaining higher percentages are spread across different conventional universities.

Similarly, the continuous advancement in technology has no doubt contributed to the enlargement of different work opportunities students can take on while going about their daily school activities. Some of these skills include digital skills that allow them to explore the field of freelancing, online tutoring, content creation, and other entrepreneurship skills.

Social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have turned content creation into a lucrative business, allowing students to monetise through brand sponsorships, ad revenue, and affiliate marketing. Also, the availability of different online stores has enabled students to run online businesses without handling inventory. 

While the progress and advancement of technology might have influenced an easy way of life for working students, the need for an adjustable system by tertiary institutions cannot be overemphasized.