A Nigerian man, Khaleel Ado Ogara, has advised youths from poor families to reconsider taking the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination if they have not secured any form of scholarship.
Ogara shared his opinion in a Facebook post on Wednesday, January 8, suggesting that those without financial backing should focus on learning skills or trades instead of pursuing higher education without adequate support.
“In my frank opinion, if you’re from a poor family and no one did promise you any scholarship, be it fully funded or partially funded, please avoid taking JAMB,” Ogara wrote.
He urged youths to acquire basic skills, engage in trade, or take on temporary menial jobs to sustain themselves until they achieve financial stability or receive a breakthrough that would allow them to pursue their education.
Challenges of Studying Without Financial Backing
Ogara highlighted the struggles of students from poor backgrounds, noting that many find it difficult to sustain themselves during university life.
“I really don’t find it honorable for someone to be seeking school fee assistance online in the beginning of 100 level,” he said. “How do you intend to feed and perhaps buy books? How do you intend to pay your subsequent school fees? Wouldn’t it be boring if you come back after a while to ask for another school fee?”
He pointed out that academic excellence might also be compromised when students have to juggle studies with searching for basic sustenance.
A Broader Perspective
While emphasizing that not everyone is destined to become a graduate, Ogara noted that in more economically stable countries, a secondary school certificate, such as WASSCE, could secure a job. However, he acknowledged that this is not often the case in Nigeria.
He encouraged individuals to build a strong foundation through other means, such as skills acquisition, until they are in a better position to further their education.
Ogara concluded his post with a prayer, saying, “May Allah help us all and richly bless all givers, regardless.”
Mixed Reactions
Ogara’s advice sparked diverse reactions online, with some agreeing with his viewpoint and others advocating for opportunities to be created for less privileged students to achieve their academic dreams. His statement adds to the ongoing discourse about access to education in Nigeria and the financial challenges faced by students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
His speech is highly discouraging and demoralizing. He’s killing the zeal of the prospective poor jamb students. What if the student scores highest attracting a scholarship? He should rather encourage and urge them to work hard while creating a way to render financial assistance for them.