Life in the diaspora: Professional growth in the UK – training and development
By Mary Opii
One of the most striking aspects of working in the UK is the emphasis on professional growth. For many Nigerians, this comes as a pleasant surprise. In Nigeria, career progression often depends heavily on who you know, years of service, or sheer persistence. Training is sometimes viewed as a privilege, reserved for senior staff or those with special connections. But in the UK, training and development are not afterthoughts, they are central to the working culture.
From the very first week on a new job, most employees are taken through an induction process. This goes beyond the basics of the role; it includes training on health and safety, equality and diversity, data protection, and even customer service. The message is clear: your employer does not just want you to work, they want you to grow, adapt, and succeed in your role.
I vividly remember attending my first workplace training in the UK. It was a full-day session, complete with slides, exercises, and refreshments. At the end of the day, we received certificates of completion. What surprised me most was that it was all sponsored by the employer. Back in Nigeria, many of us had to pay out-of-pocket for professional courses, often at great personal expense. Here, professional growth was built into the system and considered part of my right as an employee.
The UK workplaces encourage ongoing learning, not just one-off induction programmes. Employees are often given access to e-learning portals, internal workshops, or external training programmes. For example, an administrative officer may be sponsored to take a management course, or a nurse may receive regular training on the latest healthcare practices. Many employers also provide study leave or financial support for higher education, knowing that an investment in employees’ skills ultimately benefits the organisation.
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This culture of development gives Nigerian immigrants a significant opportunity. It allows us to build internationally recognised skills and qualifications, opening doors that might have been difficult to unlock back home. It also builds confidence. Each new training certificate or completed course becomes a stepping stone, adding weight to a CV and increasing employability.
Another surprising feature of the UK work system is the performance appraisal process. Unlike in Nigeria, where appraisals can sometimes feel like a formality, in the UK they are often linked directly to professional development. Managers sit down with employees to identify strengths, weaknesses, and career goals. From there, personal development plans (PDPs) are drawn up, often including recommended training courses or skill-building opportunities.
For Nigerian workers, this can feel empowering. Instead of waiting passively for growth opportunities, employees are encouraged to chart their own career paths with the support of their employers.
Yet, there are challenges too. Some Nigerians find it difficult at first to adjust to this culture of continuous learning. The idea of constantly taking courses or doing online training modules may feel burdensome, especially when juggling multiple jobs or family responsibilities. Others may underestimate the importance of these opportunities, treating them as optional rather than essential.
However, the long-term benefits cannot be overstated. Training and development are key to breaking ceilings, moving up the career ladder, and becoming competitive in the UK labour market.
I recall being nominated by my manager to attend a leadership training programme. Initially, I was reluctant, I felt I was not yet ready for such a step. But after completing the course, I realised how much it broadened my thinking and prepared me for responsibilities I had not imagined. It was a moment of growth I might never have experienced had I been working in Nigeria.
Professional growth in the UK is more than just a benefit, it is part of the culture. For Nigerians in the diaspora, embracing training and development is not optional; it is essential for thriving in a competitive environment. Each training session, each certificate, and each development plan is not just about career advancement; it is about empowerment, confidence, and building a future that reflects the sacrifices made to be here.
