“Never be deceived. Education is not the only chop bar on earth.”
This powerful quote is a wake-up call — especially in a world where traditional academic success is often overemphasized. While education is important, it’s not the only route to a fulfilling life or financial freedom.
Let’s break this down and explore why you shouldn’t put all your hopes into formal education alone — and what you can do instead.
The phrase “chop bar” is popular in West African culture, especially in Ghana and Nigeria. It refers to a place where people go to eat — a source of sustenance.
So in this context:
Education is not the only place where you can be “fed” — mentally, emotionally, or financially.
It’s a clever metaphor to say:
“There are many ways to succeed in life — not just through formal education.”
💡 Education vs. Skill: Which Matters More?
Today’s economy is skill-driven. Many high-income earners didn’t take a traditional university route. Here’s why:
Digital skills like coding, graphic design, digital marketing, and copywriting are in high demand.
→ Check out top-paying tech skills in 2025Entrepreneurship is thriving more than ever. Many successful business owners started with zero degrees but had passion and hustle.
→ Read: 10 Self-Made Entrepreneurs Without DegreesThe truth is, formal education is helpful, but it’s not a guaranteed ticket to success.
Here are other “chop bars” where people are making impact and income:
Learning a trade — such as plumbing, electrical work, tailoring, or culinary arts — can generate solid income.
→ Explore vocational training opportunities near you
You can learn almost anything online today — from programming to photography.
→ Browse Google Career Certificates
→ Skillshare | Udemy
Many musicians, artists, YouTubers, TikTokers, and comedians are earning a living by sharing their passion.
→ How to earn on YouTube
Agriculture and trading remain strong backbones in many economies. You don’t need a degree to start a poultry farm, sell produce, or import products.
→ Small Agribusiness Ideas
Being educated doesn’t guarantee success. Being resourceful, consistent, skilled, and open-minded does. Let no one deceive you into thinking that if you don’t follow the academic path, your future is doomed. It’s simply not true.
👉 Education is one chop bar. But the earth is full of many more.
Why Skills Matter More Than Degrees – Harvard Business Review
World Economic Forum: The Future of Work Is Skills
💬 What’s your view on this? Have you built success outside the classroom? Share your journey in the comments!
