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Welding apprentice explains his choice for handiwork over schooling

What led you into this trade? I stopped schooling due to lack of money. I was in the village doing nothing when my brother came,…

What led you into this trade?
I stopped schooling due to lack of money. I was in the village doing nothing when my brother came, I then decided to follow him to Abuja and I joined him in his welding business. Moreover, I prefer handiwork to going to school.
Do you think handiwork is better than schooling?
It depends on individuals, someone would have been a better welder, for instance, than a teacher but was maybe forced to school despite not having interest in education. Education is good but it is better when people are allowed to do what they are happy doing. I completed my secondary school but could not proceed. When I am done learning this trade, I can also help my family with the welding job in their houses and wherever they need my expertise. The way I see my brother doing the business, he is comfortable so taking care of my family would not be a problem, too. In addition, I am seriously interested in it, so I see nothing stopping me from being successful in this line of business.
Will you return to the village after your apprenticeship?
I will stay back in Abuja to establish my own workshop somewhere far from here. Maybe in about two years’ time.  
Have you ended your school career?
Not at all, there is no end to schooling, I can continue schooling even after I finish my apprenticeship. I need money to continue my education, so after getting it then I can continue my education. One of my brothers is in College of Education, Zuba. He combined this work with schooling and he is now doing his teaching practice. Therefore, once I make some money I can also go to school.
Last word.
Young people should follow their minds. And they should be serious about what they have decided to do. There are three of my family members in this welding business, and I am sure I will have no regret choosing it.

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