5 Misconceptions About Learning a Trade in Nigeria and Why They’re Wrong
In Nigeria, vocational education and learning a trade have long been undervalued, often viewed as a "last resort" for those who couldn't excel academically.
Yet, trades offer not only a reliable path to self-employment and financial independence but also critical skills essential to economic growth.
In this article, we’ll address five common misconceptions about learning a trade in Nigeria and explain why they’re misguided.
Misconception 1: "Learning a Trade Is Only for the Uneducated"
The Reality: Skilled trades require both intelligence and expertise.
Many people wrongly believe that vocational training is a fallback for individuals who lack academic qualifications.
However, most trades—like welding, electrical work, or auto mechanics—demand problem-solving skills, technical knowledge, and continuous learning.
Why This Myth Persists:
This misconception stems from societal pressure that equates formal education with success.
The emphasis on white-collar jobs in Nigeria often leads to a disregard for hands-on professions.
The Truth:
- Trades are practical and involve specialized knowledge, often taught in structured apprenticeships or technical colleges.
- For example, a diesel generator technician must understand engine mechanics, electrical systems, and diagnostic tools—skills requiring rigorous training.
- Globally, skilled tradespeople are indispensable in industries like construction, energy, and manufacturing.
Why It Matters:
Promoting the value of vocational training can encourage more youth to consider this path.
Nigeria's National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) aims to standardize and certify skills training, proving that learning a trade is far from an unstructured endeavor.
Misconception 2: "Trades Don’t Pay Well"
The Reality: Trades often offer lucrative earning potential.
Another widespread belief is that tradespeople earn meager incomes compared to professionals with university degrees.
In reality, skilled trades can be highly profitable, especially when demand outpaces supply.
Why This Myth Persists:
This perception likely arises from the informal nature of some trades, where income can vary widely.
Additionally, many people overlook the entrepreneurial opportunities trades provide.
The Truth:
- Skilled welders, electricians, and plumbers can earn upwards of ₦150,000–₦300,000 monthly in Nigeria.
- Professions like solar panel installation or diesel generator repair are experiencing rapid growth, with some tradespeople charging premium rates for specialized services.
- Globally, skilled trades offer stability. In developed countries, trade jobs often pay more than entry-level office roles.
Why It Matters:
Changing the narrative around earning potential can attract more young Nigerians to vocational training, especially in high-demand industries like renewable energy or heavy equipment repair.
Misconception 3: "Trades Are Only for Men"
The Reality: Women can and do excel in trades.
Gender bias often discourages women from pursuing careers in skilled trades, despite growing opportunities in fields like carpentry, plumbing, and automobile repair.
Why This Myth Persists:
The stereotype that trade jobs are physically demanding or unsuitable for women perpetuates this misconception.
Traditional gender roles also play a significant role in limiting women's participation.
The Truth:
- Women have proven their capabilities in male-dominated industries worldwide.
- Organizations like Women in Technical Education and Employment (WITED) in Nigeria aim to support women in vocational training.
- Trades like interior design, electrical installations, and solar technology are becoming increasingly popular among women.
Why It Matters:
Encouraging women to enter trades not only promotes gender equality but also helps fill the skills gap in Nigeria's labor market.
Misconception 4: "Trades Have Limited Career Growth"
The Reality: Skilled trades offer diverse career pathways.
Many people think that learning a trade means being stuck in the same role for life, but trades often provide opportunities for specialization, entrepreneurship, and even management positions.
Why This Myth Persists:
This misconception may stem from a lack of understanding of how vocational training works.
Many people don’t realize that trades involve continuous skill development and certifications.
The Truth:
- Trades allow for specialization. For example, a general auto mechanic can specialize in diesel engines or hybrid vehicles.
- Trade professionals can become business owners, trainers, or consultants.
- Certifications from institutions like the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) can boost career advancement.
Why It Matters:
Highlighting the potential for career growth can make trades more appealing to young Nigerians.
Misconception 5: "Trades Are Irrelevant in a Modern Economy"
The Reality: Trades are critical to Nigeria’s economic development.
Some believe that the rise of technology and automation will render traditional trades obsolete.
However, the opposite is true—skilled trades are adapting to modern advancements and remain integral to economic progress.
Why This Myth Persists:
The rapid growth of tech industries often overshadows the importance of skilled trades.
This has led to an overemphasis on digital skills at the expense of hands-on professions.
The Truth:
- Modern industries rely on trades. For instance, electricians are essential for solar panel installation, and plumbers play a key role in water and sanitation projects.
- Trades are adapting to technological changes. Diesel generator technicians, for example, now work with automation systems and remote monitoring tools.
- With Nigeria's push for industrialization, skilled trades are more relevant than ever.
Why It Matters:
By emphasizing the role of trades in nation-building, we can encourage more youth to pursue these careers.
Why Learning a Trade Is the Future of Nigeria
In a country with high unemployment rates, vocational education offers a viable solution.
Skilled trades are recession-proof, adaptable, and vital for Nigeria’s infrastructure development.
Additionally, trades provide young people with the tools to become self-reliant entrepreneurs.
Steps to Change the Narrative:
1. Government Support: Invest in technical education and apprenticeships.
2. Public Awareness Campaigns: Highlight success stories of tradespeople.
3. Parental Education: Address societal pressure to pursue white-collar jobs.
Conclusion
The misconceptions about learning a trade in Nigeria are not just untrue—they are harmful, discouraging young people from exploring viable career paths.
By debunking these myths, we can inspire a new generation of skilled professionals who will contribute to Nigeria’s growth.
It’s time to change the narrative. Learning a trade isn’t a fallback—it’s a foundation for success.
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