A viral post by Nigerian writer and social commentator, Martin Beck Nworah, has sparked deep conversations among students after he boldly listed 10 university courses he believes poor students should avoid if they want to succeed and break free from poverty.
In the emotional thread shared on social media, Martin didn’t hold back. His message was clear and straightforward: “If you’re from a poor background and you’re hoping to change your life through education, you must choose your course wisely.”
According to him, some university courses, while valuable in their own way, simply do not provide fast or stable career paths, especially in a country like Nigeria where job opportunities are already limited.
“These Courses Won’t Feed You After Graduation”
Martin’s post focused on the harsh reality many graduates are facing — years of schooling with no job, no support, and no breakthrough. He argued that for those who come from humble homes, there is no room for trial and error, and every choice must be intentional.
Among the courses he listed are Archaeology, Fine Arts, Music, Theatre Arts, Philosophy, History, Sociology, Religious Studies, Library Science, and Criminology.
Each one, he explained, has limited job openings, poor pay, or uncertain career paths in Nigeria — making them a risky choice for students who cannot afford to “wait and hope” after school.
A Breakdown of the Warning
Martin highlighted the reality behind each course, using vivid examples and even a bit of humor to pass his message. He described how archaeology students risk their lives visiting remote villages for research, only to find no jobs after school. Fine arts students, he said, often end up painting celebrities and praying for reposts. Music students may face a hard road, especially without the right connections.
He also pointed out that philosophy and history, while noble fields, are rarely respected in the Nigerian job market. Most job seekers in these fields are left to either teach or argue at newspaper stands, as he put it.
Theatre Arts graduates, he said, often end up popular but broke, and those studying sociology or anthropology can get stuck in endless campus activism with no clear job in sight.
“It’s Not About Mocking — It’s About Survival”
Martin clarified that he wasn’t trying to insult these courses or those who are already studying them. Instead, his post was a heartfelt message to students who are counting on their education as their only hope out of poverty.
“If you’re already in one of these courses, start learning digital skills or a side hustle now,” he advised. “Don’t wait till NYSC or graduation before you wake up.”
Nigerians React
The post has received thousands of shares, likes, and comments — many agreeing with his honesty. One user wrote, “I wish someone told me this before I picked my course.” Another added, “This is the kind of truth our younger ones need to hear before it’s too late.”
Still, a few disagreed, saying that passion should come first, not fear. But Martin responded that passion alone can’t pay rent or take care of family needs. “It’s not about killing dreams,” he said, “It’s about helping people build the right ones.”
Final Word
In a country where many graduates remain jobless and frustrated, Martin Beck Nworah’s message is a powerful wake-up call — especially for young people from homes that can’t afford to fail.
His advice is simple: “Choose wisely. Learn something extra. Plan your life like someone who doesn’t have time to waste.”
Whether or not you agree with his list, one thing is clear — the conversation he started is one many students and parents need to have.
I am glad to be here.
More information, please.
I will be glad, you did.
Then are trying to say if you are doing criminology now, when you are done in school you are not going to a job
Sir what of English and literally studies
Im glad I Saw this on time