Beyond the Classroom: YABATECH Students turn to Side Hustles Amid Economic Hardship

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Students at Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) are increasingly turning to part-time “hustles” to sustain themselves while pursuing their academic goals, as the prevailing economic hardship continues to bite. From tailoring and baking to digital services and phone accessory sales, students across departments are juggling side businesses with school work to make ends meet.

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Chinaza Okoye, a final-year business administration student, works as a fashion designer. “Sometimes I sew all night if I have a deadline. After that, I quickly clean up and attend lectures. It’s tough, but there’s no alternative,” she said. Oluwadamilola Adeniran, an HND II Mass Communication student, offers social media management services to small businesses. “I taught myself how to use Canva and manage Instagram pages. I charge N5,000 per client monthly. That’s how I pay for data and assignments,” she said.

Idris Bello, a Mechanical Engineering ND II student, sells phone chargers and accessories outside his hostel. “At first it was awkward selling to classmates, but the money keeps me going. I even send part of it home to help my family,” he said. Mariam Sule, a computer science student, sells homemade cupcakes on campus. “I cry sometimes when business clashes with schoolwork. But I have to keep pushing. My mum is a widow, and I can’t afford to relax,” she said.

While these students are finding ways to cope, the workload is affecting their mental and physical well-being. Many report poor sleep schedules, fatigue, and struggles with academic performance. “One of my friends fainted during exams. He was working at a bar till 2 a.m. and still attended 8 a.m. lectures daily. His body just gave up,” a student said.

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Staff members are also expressing concern about the increasing pressure students face. “We see students coming late to class, mentally drained or unable to concentrate. They are hard-working, but the burden is too much,” said Mrs Ronke Adesina, a senior lecturer at the School of Communication. She urged the institution to create skill hubs, mentorship programmes, and platforms to support student entrepreneurs.

Despite the pressure, many students view their hustles as valuable life experiences that teach them discipline and practical skills. “I may not sleep well, but I’ll graduate with both a certificate and real-world experience,” a student said. YABATECH students continue to show resilience, finding ways to survive and thrive in the face of economic difficulty. Their determination reflects a larger national trend: Nigerian youths adapting, innovating, and pushing forward—despite the odds.

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