The Power of Education in Nation Building

 

The Power of Education in Nation Building The Power of Education in Nation-Building Education does not only equip individuals with knowledge but also instills values such as discipline, critical thinking, problem-solving, and resilience. It enables people to contribute meaningfully to society, creating sustainable development. Countries that prioritize education experience advancements in technology, improved governance, reduced poverty, and a better quality of life. In traditional African societies, education was regarded as a lifelong investment, and success was often measured by an individual's contribution to the community rather than the accumulation of wealth. However, in today’s world, particularly in Nigeria and other developing nations, this perspective is rapidly changing, with dangerous consequences. The Wrong Notion of Quick Money and Its Consequences The rise of the “get rich quick” mentality has eroded the core values of education. Many young people no longer see schooling as a pathway to success but rather as an unnecessary delay in their pursuit of wealth. This misguided belief has been fueled by: Social Media Influence – Platforms like Instagram and TikTok often glorify overnight wealth without showcasing the hard work behind success. Youths are easily misled into believing that financial success does not require effort, leading them to engage in fraudulent activities. The Rise of Cybercrime and Ritual Practices – The increasing involvement of young people in internet fraud (popularly known as “Yahoo Yahoo”) and money rituals is a direct consequence of a society that prioritizes wealth over integrity. Many now believe that education is a waste of time when they can make millions through illegal means. Weak Educational System and Poor Job Opportunities – Many graduates struggle to find employment, creating the false impression that education is useless. The failure of the system to reward hard work and intelligence pushes young people into shortcuts for financial gain. Neglect of Vocational and Technical Skills – The obsession with white-collar jobs has led to the neglect of vocational and technical education, which are essential for economic sustainability. Many youths would rather chase wealth illegally than acquire skills that contribute to societal development. The Destruction of Future Leaders The destruction caused by the quick-money mentality is evident in the increasing crime rate, moral decadence, and loss of national identity. Youths who should be building careers in medicine, engineering, law, and governance are being lured into crime, drug abuse, and other social vices. The result is a generation that lacks vision, leadership, and the discipline to sustain a functional society. When education is undermined, communities suffer from: Increased crime and insecurity Poor leadership and governance Economic stagnation Broken moral values and societal decay Reclaiming the Future Through Education To restore the value of education and safeguard the future of our communities, there must be a collective effort to: Reform the Educational System – Governments must invest in quality education, ensuring that graduates are equipped with practical skills that make them employable. Promote Entrepreneurship and Vocational Training – Not all success comes from formal education; technical and vocational skills should be encouraged as viable alternatives. Curb the Influence of Social Media Fakery – There is a need for digital literacy programs to educate young people about the realities behind social media lifestyles. Strengthen Moral and Ethical Values – Families, religious institutions, and schools must emphasize integrity, hard work, and patience as virtues of success. Create More Employment Opportunities – A functional economy with job opportunities will reduce the desperation that pushes youths into illegal activities. Conclusion A nation that neglects education in pursuit of quick wealth is bound for destruction. The future of any community depends on the values it instills in its youth. Education remains the only sustainable pathway to progress, innovation, and leadership. If young people can see the long-term benefits of education over short-lived wealth, the foundation of our communities will remain strong, ensuring a prosperous future for generations to come. The real question remains: Are we willing to save the future by upholding the value of education?