If Education Is A Scam, Then Ignorance Is A Tragedy -By Isaac Asabor

Ignorance is not bliss; it is a burden. In a rapidly evolving world where knowledge and skills determine opportunities, those who choose to reject education, formal or informal, are at a severe disadvantage. In fact the dangers of embracing ignorance are unarguably numerous. Some of them cut across limited opportunities, social embarrassment, economic disadvantage coupled with manipulation and exploitation. 

Explanatorily put, education provides individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to explore various career paths. Without it, one’s options shrink drastically, often leaving individuals at the mercy of menial jobs and exploitative labor.

In a similar vein, there is no denying the fact that language and comprehension are crucial in social interactions. As seen in the viral joke, being unable to understand or respond appropriately in basic communication can lead to humiliating situations. This not only affects one’s confidence but also limits access to networking opportunities, which are essential for personal and professional growth.

Also, in today’s economy, high-paying jobs and career advancements are mostly reserved for those who possess specialized knowledge and skills. While some individuals without formal education may succeed through entrepreneurial ventures, the majority remain trapped in poverty due to a lack of marketable skills.

Also in a similar vein, an uneducated mind is easily manipulated. People who lack basic critical thinking skills fall prey to scams, misinformation, and political propaganda. This is why education is essential, not just for economic success, but for personal independence and informed decision-making.

In fact, education is not just about certificates.  Many who claim that education is a scam base their arguments on the fact that many university graduates remain unemployed. However, education is not merely about obtaining certificates; it is about acquiring knowledge, skills, and the ability to think critically. In today’s world, education has evolved beyond the four walls of a classroom. Self-education, vocational training, and skill acquisition all count as education. The most successful individuals are those who continuously learn, adapt, and improve themselves.

Beyond personal gain derivable from education, the role of education in National Development cannot be pooh-poohed with mere wave of the hands.  This is as a nation’s growth is directly tied to the quality of education its citizens receive. Countries that prioritize education experience rapid development, technological advancements, and a higher standard of living. On the other hand, nations that neglect education suffer from underdevelopment, high crime rates, and poor governance. Nigeria, for instance, faces numerous challenges due to the lack of widespread quality education. The culture of mediocrity, corruption, and misplaced priorities can be traced to an insufficiently educated populace that fails to demand accountability from its leaders.

Without a doubt, the reality of life without education is unappealing.  To those who believe education is a scam, it is important to examine the reality of life without it. Imagine navigating the world without the ability to read, write, or communicate effectively. Consider the difficulty of making financial decisions, signing contracts, or even using modern technology without basic literacy. Even the most menial jobs today require some level of education.

Furthermore, education extends beyond literacy; it includes problem-solving, adaptability, and innovation. Those who lack these skills are often the first to suffer when economic shifts occur. A factory worker without additional skills can be replaced by automation, while a literate and skilled worker can transition into a different career.

Give the foregoing arguments, it is germane to suggest in this context that the narrative that says education is a scam should be changed by those who have been mouthing it. At this juncture, it is expedient to ask, “How can the narrative be changed?”

The answer to the foregoing cannot be farfetched as there is an urgent need to redefine education. Instead of seeing education as just school and certificates, young people should be encouraged to pursue knowledge in any form, be it vocational skills, online courses, or apprenticeships.

In a similar vein, there is need for the improvement of the Education System: The government and private sector must work towards an education system that is practical and aligned with modern economic realities. Schools should incorporate skill-based learning, entrepreneurship, and digital literacy.

Again, there is the need to encourage self-education.  This is as the internet has made learning more accessible than ever. From YouTube tutorials to online courses, there is no excuse for remaining ignorant. Anyone with a smartphone and internet access can acquire valuable knowledge and skills.

Not only that, there is also the need to change societal perception. This is as parents, educators, and policymakers must help reshape the mindset of young people. Instead of promoting the idea that only traditional white-collar jobs define success, alternative career paths such as vocational training, tech skills, and creative arts should be given equal respect.

The argument that education is a scam is deeply flawed. While the Nigerian educational system has its shortcomings, the solution is not to reject education entirely but to seek relevant and adaptable knowledge. Ignorance is far more costly than education. The viral joke about the young man at the embassy may have been meant for humor, but it serves as a cautionary tale for those who choose to remain uneducated. In the grand scheme of life, it is better to have education and struggle to succeed than to lack education and be left out of opportunities entirely.

If education is a scam, then ignorance is a disaster waiting to happen. Let us choose knowledge over ignorance, empowerment over embarrassment, and progress over stagnation.