As the “Japa” wave continues to rise, many Nigerians with only WAEC or SSCE certificates wonder if they have feasible pathways to migrate.
While higher academic qualifications often offer more options, those with secondary school credentials still have viable routes to explore.
Here are some strategic ways WAEC holders can relocate abroad:
1. Education Pathways With Flexible Entry Requirements
While direct university admission may be challenging, several alternatives exist:
– Vocational and Foundation Programs: Countries like Canada, the UK, Australia, Germany, and Ireland offer foundation programs and vocational courses that accept WAEC results.
– Community Colleges (USA & Canada): These institutions allow students to begin with a two-year diploma and later transition to full-degree programs.
– Affordable Universities: Some universities in Hungary, Turkey, and Poland accept WAEC results for direct entry, often with lower tuition fees compared to Western nations.
2. Work and Migration Schemes
Several countries provide employment-based migration opportunities for low-skilled and semi-skilled workers:
– United Kingdom: The Health & Care Worker Visa allows WAEC holders to work as care assistants with employer-sponsored training.
– Canada: The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) provides access to jobs in farming, caregiving, and hospitality.
– Portugal & Poland: These countries have dedicated work visa pathways for construction, manufacturing, and agricultural sectors.
3. Scholarships and Vocational Training Grants
While many scholarships target degree holders, some unique opportunities exist for WAEC certificate holders:
– Germany’s Ausbildung Program: This initiative offers fully funded vocational training, complete with a stipend.
– Exchange Programs: Certain international education and cultural exchange programs consider WAEC holders, especially for specialized training.
4. Relocation Through Family and Marriage
Family ties can provide legal pathways for relocation:
– Family Reunification Visas: Individuals with spouses or immediate relatives abroad can apply for dependent visas in countries like the US, UK, and Canada.
– Marriage-Based Immigration: Legal marriage to a foreign national can open residency pathways, provided it meets immigration requirements.
5. Tourism Visas With Employment Prospects
Certain nations offer flexible stay options for visitors:
– Turkey, UAE, Georgia, and Schengen Countries: These destinations provide visit visas, and some travelers transition to work permits after securing jobs legally.
6. Gaining In-Demand Skills for Easier Migration
WAEC holders can enhance their migration chances by acquiring sought-after skills such as:
– Caregiving (UK, Canada, Germany)
– Welding, Plumbing, and Electrical Work (Germany, Poland, Portugal)
– Digital Skills (Freelance and Remote Work Opportunities)
Final Thoughts
Although the journey to relocation may seem daunting for WAEC holders, multiple pathways exist for those willing to explore strategic options.
With the right approach, persistence, and skill-building, Nigerians with secondary school qualifications can successfully move abroad and build better futures.
