The Role of Education in Upward Mobility

I vividly remember the moment I stood at the podium, receiving my MBA from Southern Methodist University in 2019.  

As I grasped the diploma,  a realisation washed over me - this wasn't just a piece of paper.  

I carry with me not just the degree I've earned, but the mindset of a perpetual student— always ready to learn, innovate, and adapt to the ever-changing world. 

As an entrepreneur,  my journey has been profoundly shaped by my educational experiences, particularly from being a physics undergraduate to becoming a business owner.  

This has been marked by continuous growth, unexpected opportunities, and valuable lessons.  

In this newsletter issue, I'll share how my educational experiences have moulded my entrepreneurial path and offer insights for aspiring business leaders. 

The Foundation 

My academic path began with a Bachelor of Technology in Applied Physics from the Federal University of Technology, Akure in 2001.  

This foundation in hard sciences might seem an unlikely start for an entrepreneur, but it instilled in me a curiosity and analytical approach that has served me well throughout my career.  

I then pursued a Master of Science in Management, specializing in system security, from Colorado Technical University in 2013.  

In 2019, I completed an MBA from Southern Methodist University in Dallas. 

This program, especially the marketing strategy course, revolutionised my perspective on entrepreneurship.  

It was here that I truly began to appreciate the value of numbers and their impact on business decisions. 

The Impact of Formal Education and Self-Directed Learning 

While my formal education provided a strong foundation,  I've found that self-directed learning is equally important for entrepreneurial success.  

It was this self-directed learning that launched me into my career as a cybersecurity expert. 

My formal education, take my MBA for instance, contributed significantly to my business acumen, but my daily habit of dedicating a consistent two hours to research, reading, and staying updated with industry trends has been invaluable.  

It has made me flexible with the times. 

I often say: "Being successful is not just about education; it's about the individual, having belief in yourself, and being in the right environment."  

This belief underscores the importance of combining formal education with practical experience and self-motivation. 

Opening Doors and Overcoming Barriers 

My first degree in physics opened unexpected doors as it was during that time I took an interest in learning IT skills. 

From then on, it led me to work in telecom and IT security — fields I hadn't initially considered.  

My educational background provided opportunities to work with top companies in Nigeria and travel internationally, broadening my perspective on different cultures and business approaches. 

However, I also faced challenges early in my career.  

Several companies initially rejected me based on where I had studied, not on my capabilities as the Federal University of Technology Akure as at then wasn’t as well known as it is, but times have changed now from the way it was then. 

Global Perspective 

My background in physics instilled a deep curiosity that continues to drive innovation in my ventures.  

It taught me to question how things work and to approach problems with an analytical mindset.  

This scientific approach to business problems has been a unique advantage, allowing me to see opportunities where others might not. 

Another significant benefit of my education has been the global perspective it afforded me.  

While I didn't have a specific mentor guiding my educational journey,  

The environment I grew up in highly valued education.  

My father, in particular, always emphasised the importance of being well-educated. 

Along the line, my work has taken me to various countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the United States.  

This exposure helped me understand different cultural perspectives and business approaches, significantly broadening my worldview. 

The cultural, economic and social thought patterns in West Africa, even within West Africa are different, the way people living in Nigeria would think is different from those living in Ghana, let alone East Africa, South Africa, or Asia.  

This understanding of global diversity has been important in my entrepreneurial journey,  

Especially when dealing with international markets and diverse teams in Pashione. 

Lifelong Learning

Continuous learning is no longer just a “nice to do” but a necessity. 

I incorporate learning into my daily routine, using platforms like LinkedIn to stay updated on industry trends and new technologies.  

During travel, especially on long-haul flights, I dedicate time to reading and enhancing my knowledge. 

This commitment to ongoing education has been important in helping me adapt to technological changes.  

I rely on a combination of personal research and collaboration with my innovative management team to stay ahead of industry developments. 

Creating Opportunities and Giving Back 

Education has empowered me not just to succeed personally,  

But also to create opportunities for others.  

I've conducted cybersecurity classes and am planning to start regular lectures to share my knowledge and experience.  

To me, the true value of education lies in its ability to be shared and multiplied. 

My educational journey has been a cornerstone of my entrepreneurial success.  

It has opened doors, fostered innovation, and provided a foundation for continuous growth.  

But perhaps the most important lesson I've learned is that education doesn't stop when you leave the classroom.  

It's a lifelong journey of learning, adapting, and growing. 

The Future of Education in Entrepreneurship 

As we move into an increasingly digital world, I believe the role of education for entrepreneurs will continue to evolve. 

While formal education remains important, the ability to learn continuously, adapt quickly, and apply knowledge practically will become even more essential. 

I often say, "Education is not so much going to school Education is about learning."  

This broader understanding of education—one that includes practical experiences, innovative thinking, and learning from others—is what I believe will define successful entrepreneurs in the future. 

To young entrepreneurs:

I emphasise the importance of balancing formal education with practical experience. 

While degrees are valuable, it is equally important to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.  

I advise: 

1. Pursue formal education, but don't stop learning when you’re done with school. 

2. Seek out practical experiences that complement your studies. 

3. Develop a habit of continuous learning and stay curious about your industry. 

4. Don't underestimate the value of soft skills like communication and leadership. 

5. Use your education as a tool to open doors, but rely on your skills and work ethic to succeed. 

And lastly:

To every individual trying to move up the ladder, I say: embrace education in all its forms, stay curious, and never stop learning.