Biochemistry Graduate Laments Working as Betting Shop Sales Rep in Lab Coat
A young lady who studied Biochemistry at the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, has taken to social media to express her frustration after ending up as a sales representative in a betting shop, wearing the lab coat she was required to purchase during her studies. The video, which has gone viral, highlights the ongoing issue of graduate unemployment in Nigeria.
Graduate Recalls Lecturer's Warning as She Works in Betting Shop
In the TikTok video, the graduate, identified as @kikiola0014, recalled a statement her lecturer frequently made: "If you don't have a lab coat, don't enter my lab." She lamented that despite adhering to such academic requirements, she now uses the same lab coat while working at a betting shop, where she sells Baba Ijebu lotto tickets. The video shows her wearing the coat as she discusses the lack of job opportunities in the country.
She explained that during her time at Offa Polytechnic, students were strictly prohibited from entering the laboratory without a lab coat. Years later, she finds herself in a situation where the garment symbolizes unfulfilled career aspirations rather than professional use in a scientific field.
Reactions as Graduate Lament Lack of Jobs
The video has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many users sharing similar experiences or expressing sympathy. Comments include:
- A cake vendor noted, "My lab coat is inside my wardrobe," indicating unused academic gear.
- Another user shared, "Doing the same business for 13 years now even before I gained admission, and I can never leave it to look for a job."
- Some criticized the systemic issues, with one stating, "Nigeria is a damn country... how can a graduate be working for a person that didn't finish secondary school."
- Others offered encouragement, such as "More grace to the Lord will open doors for you."
The graduate's plight has resonated with many, highlighting broader concerns about employment challenges faced by Nigerian youths.
Similar Stories of Graduate Unemployment
This incident is not isolated. In a related report, a Nigerian woman recently expressed immense joy after receiving a Civil Service appointment letter 18 years after graduating from university, underscoring the prolonged job searches many endure. Additionally, a University of Ilorin graduate in Political Science publicly begged for job opportunities after completing the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), seeking roles in customer service, office assistance, sales, or reception.
These stories collectively emphasize the urgent need for improved job creation and educational alignment with market demands in Nigeria.
