Balikis Akingbade
Education is often described as the key to success, but for many Nigerian students today, the journey toward academic achievement is filled with hidden struggles. In the digital age, students are expected to balance schoolwork, social life, technology and personal growth all at once. While technology has made learning easier in some ways, it has also introduced new challenges that many students quietly battle every day.
One major challenge facing students is distraction from social media. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram and WhatsApp consume a large part of students’ time. A student may pick up a phone to research an assignment but end up spending hours watching videos or chatting with friends. This constant distraction affects concentration, reading habits and academic performance. Many students now struggle to stay focused during lectures or while studying because they have become too dependent on their phones.
Another issue is academic pressure. Students are expected to pass examinations with excellent grades, participate in activities and still maintain a social life. Some students face pressure from parents who expect nothing less than success. Others compare themselves to classmates who appear to be doing better academically or financially. This pressure can lead to anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. Unfortunately, mental health discussions are still limited in many schools, leaving students to suffer in silence.
Financial challenges also make education difficult. In Nigeria, many students combine schooling with part-time jobs or small businesses just to survive. Rising transportation costs, expensive textbooks and high living expenses place additional burdens on students. Some students skip meals, miss classes or delay paying school fees because of financial hardship. These problems affect their ability to fully concentrate on their studies.
Despite these struggles, students continue to show resilience and determination. Many use online resources to improve themselves, learn new skills and create opportunities beyond the classroom. Digital platforms now allow students to learn graphic design, programming, content creation and other valuable skills that can help them build careers in the future.
To improve students’ educational experiences, schools and society must provide better support systems. There should be greater awareness about mental health, affordable educational materials and encouragement for healthy use of technology. Parents and lecturers should also create environments where students feel comfortable discussing their challenges without fear of judgment.
Education remains one of the most powerful tools for national development. However, understanding the realities students face in the digital age is important. By supporting students academically, emotionally and financially, society can help them succeed not only in school but also in life.