More often than not, the challenge many Nigerians face when it comes to studying abroad is striking a balance between in-demand careers and countries to seek quality academic skills in those fields.
According to Biznews, South African daily business news online careers in business, information technology (IT), medicine, and engineering are in high demand in today’s globalised economy.
Nigerian students who are aiming to enter these fields, finding the right countries and institutions to study abroad can be of great help in gaining the needed competitive edge in the global job market.
United Kingdom (UK)
The United Kingdom has world-renowned universities and strong global recognition of its degrees. There is also no language barrier for Nigerians, since English is the official language, hence, making it easier for them to fit in.
UK universities are ideal for courses in medicine and nursing. Doctors are obviously in high demand in almost every country. The World Health Organization estimates that there is a global deficit of 4.3 million physicians, nurses, and health professionals.
So, Nigerians interested in that field stand a good chance to succeed in their chosen career after graduation. Besides, by studying in the UK, Nigerian students can pursue immigration and citizenship there.
Once their studies are complete, they can apply for a graduate visa which allows foreign students to stay in the UK for two years or three years if they hold a Ph.D, to work.
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Australia
Australia has a reputation for academic excellence and provides various post-graduation work opportunities.
Like the UK, Australia offers a temporary graduate visa that allows students to remain in the country for two or three years for students holding a Ph.D, after completing their studies.
The country has good institutions for business studies, and information technology studies, among others.
Business professionals are in high demand worldwide. Individuals with analytical minds and strong attention to detail are particularly sought after for careers in finance.
Australia offers employer-sponsored visas and a skilled migration route that can lead to permanent residency and citizenship.
Canada
Canada is another study destination Nigerians can optimise. Canada’s college and university degrees are recognised worldwide and tuition fees are lower than many other countries.
Foreign students can work during their studies and after graduation and can work for up to three years under the post-graduation work permit (PGWP) programme.
Doctors, nurses, IT professionals, and engineers are in short supply in Canada so studying one of these can increase your chances of being sponsored to stay in the country permanently.
Mauritius
Mauritius is a great option for Nigerians because the cost of living there is affordable.
Many UK universities have campuses in Mauritius, meaning Nigerians can earn a UK degree at a much lower cost.
Foreign students can obtain permanent residence by securing employment, applying for an occupational permit, and living in Mauritius for about three years.
Other European countries
European countries are known for their academic excellence, rich history, and variety of programmes offered in English.
Several European universities offer scholarships and financial aid to international students.
Many of these European countries prioritise sectors with labour shortages such as engineering, IT, healthcare, and the sciences. Graduates in these fields are more likely to secure employment which is often a requirement for transitioning from a student visa to a work visa or permits such as the EU Blue Card. According to VisaGuide.World, this card facilitates the admission of non-EU highly skilled professionals into the EU and intends to simplify the procedures and improve the legal status of those already in the EU.
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