Data Science is an ever-growing field. And one that’s in demand. What’s more, there isn’t a time when we won’t need to analyze our data. So, it’s a great field to start learning.
But it’s more challenging to start developing the needed skills if you’re in Nigeria.
Why?
Because there are several challenges you’ll face, some of which can be controlled while others can’t.
What are these challenges of learning Data Science in Nigeria? Let’s stop the babble and get down to business, shall we?
Before that, don’t forget to check out other posts to get insight into data and Python-related topics:
5 Challenges of Learning Data Science in Nigeria
1. UNSTABLE POWER SUPPLY
Every Nigerian knows just how unstable the power supply is in the country. And the truth is when learning data analytics (or anything online, for that matter), sufficient power is needed to practice and build up your skills faster.
Depending on where you live in the country, this may pose the greatest challenge for you.
Except you have a solar system that’s stable and sufficient, you’ll discover that you’ll learn — not when you want to — but when you have to.
2. UNRELIABLE INTERNET CONNECTION
Among the things that are out of your control, internet connectivity sits at number two.
What do I mean?
Imagine watching a tutorial or attending an online class you’ve paid for only for your connection to go haywire.
This happens pretty often in Nigeria regardless of the internet service or data plan you’re using.
And when it does, it’s really frustrating since you’ll have to wait until it gets resolved. Who knows how long that takes?
3. LACK OF COMMUNITY SUPPORT
In Nigeria, there is limited awareness of data science and what it involves. Perhaps because of this, you’ll rarely meet a skilled data scientist in person ready to mentor and guide you through the process.
Not everybody is comfortable joining an online group of thousands of members from unknown backgrounds.
4. LIMITED LEARNING RESOURCES
The resources available to Nigerians for learning data science are also limited. Since it’s not a common field in universities, like engineering and medicine, getting the essential resources is harder and may be more expensive.
True, free resources are available online. But one thing is certain: They are always more limited than paid ones.
5. FINANCIAL CONSTRAINTS
To learn data science in Nigeria, you may also face the following challenges in terms of finance:
- High cost of courses
- Many essential tools require a paid license to get the full functionality
- Some data science textbooks are costly.
These are only a few challenges you may face when learning data science in Nigeria. However, like every other field, it is not impossible. So, how can you deal with or at least cope with some of these challenges?
How to Cope With the Challenges Of Learning Data Science in Nigeria
- Have a flexible learning schedule to help you learn when you have power and when the internet connection is at its peak
- Join reputable online data science communities
- Take advantage of free learning resources to the best of your ability
- Look out for discounts on the price of courses
- As a beginner, the free versions of most software and tools are sufficient. Upgrade as you grow.
- Stay up-to-date with DataScience Ville where I drop tips for beginners and take you along my learning journey.
Wrapping Up
You can’t avoid the challenges of learning a new skill. It’s part of the process. So, don’t beat yourself up about it. Instead, the suggestions above should be sufficient for you to start your learning journey ASAP.
Yes, it’s possible to start learning data science in Nigeria. And as time passes and the field grows in the country, many of these challenges may also fade out.