181. QUALIFICATIONS OR EXPERIENCE? Jack’s Japa Empowerment - Diaspora Handbook - Nijaa Diaspora Empowerment - Immigrant Handbook

181. QUALIFICATIONS OR EXPERIENCE?

When Nigerians arrive in the UK, one of the first career shocks they encounter is the argument over qualifications versus experience. Back home, qualifications frequently open the door. A degree from a reputable university, professional certifications, or postgraduate courses are frequently recognised. Employers in the UK, on the other hand, place a higher value on relevant experience than academic credentials. This can be a culture shock for many people who thought their degrees would guarantee them a solid job.

The truth is that the UK job market favours a mix of both, but experience frequently speaks louder. For example, a person with five years of hands-on experience in project management is more likely to get a job than someone with a new master's degree but no real-world experience. Employers want proof that you can do the job, not just theory. That is why internships, volunteering, and entry-level roles become stepping stones for many Nigerians who want to break into their industries.

However, qualifications are still important. Certain careers, such as medicine, law, teaching, and engineering, require certain UK-recognised degrees before you may practise. Even if you have extensive experience in Nigeria, the UK may not recognise your qualifications until you revalidate or retrain. This means you can't rely solely on experience. To make your CV competitive in this system, you may need to invest in further education, professional examinations, or bridge courses.

For Nigerians with existing degrees, the goal is to match them with practical experience. Take advantage of apprenticeships, part-time positions, or industry placements, to gain real-world experience in the UK. Employers here want to determine if you can work within the culture, systems, and expectations of the workplace. A Nigerian CV loaded with qualifications but no UK references may not carry as much weight as you think.