According to Nollywood actor Jim Iyke, survival skills, life experience, and mentorship are more important factors in determining true success than a formal education.
In a recent interview with media personality Joey Akan, the actor made the case that success is not always determined by academic credentials, pointing out that many former students—including himself—have outperformed their instructors.
“How many of our teachers are doing well in life? I once met one of my professors, who is now late, on a plane, and we both knew who was doing better.
“If I had taken everything he taught me verbatim and applied it in my pursuit, I wouldn’t have been successful.”
“I will tell you what worked. It is what the uncles, the traders who barely went to school but amassed untold wealth, told me. They told me to go left at all times and never right.
“The father who told me to forget all that book and know when to be ruthless, conform, or stand my ground, and what books to read.”
“Some of the wealthiest men in the world did not get it from the classroom. How many of them have a PhD? I have a PhD holder who works for me. We can argue all we want.”
I completely agree with Jim Iyke’s assertion. I know an uncle who holds an MSc degree, yet he struggles to find a good job and make ends meet. His intelligence is undeniable, but sometimes qualifications alone are not enough to secure financial stability.
Many successful business people have built their empires without formal education, while others with white-collar jobs find it difficult to put food on the table.
This clearly shows that success depends on more than just academic qualifications; entrepreneurship, practical skills, and determination often play a more significant role in achieving financial security.
Live with Purpose, Love with Passion. Remember to be happy
One 
Rose Ajieh
