7 Proven Ways to Earn Money as a SIWES Student in Nigeria

Introduction.

As a student in Nigeria, especially if you’re currently undergoing the SIWES (Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme), you’re likely balancing your studies and the pressures of gaining practical work experience.

While the program provides hands-on experience in your field of study, it can sometimes be financially demanding.

You might find yourself in need of some extra cash to cover your daily expenses, transportation costs, or personal needs.

So, how can you earn money while still focusing on your studies and the requirements of the SIWES program?

Well, there are many creative and proven ways to make money, and I’m here to guide you through them.

In this article, I will share 7 practical ways that any SIWES student in Nigeria can earn money. These methods are not only feasible but can also be flexible enough to work around your schedule.

How Do I Earn Money as a SIWES Student in Nigeria?

1. Freelance Online Work

One of the most popular and flexible ways to earn money as a SIWES student is by freelancing online.

With just a laptop or even a smartphone, you can offer your skills to people around the world. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer provide platforms where you can find clients in areas such as graphic design, content writing, social media management, and web development.

Even if you don’t have professional experience yet, there are many entry-level tasks you can take on. Think of data entry, simple writing jobs, or basic graphic design.

As a student, you can build your portfolio with smaller gigs and gradually move on to higher-paying projects as you gain experience.

Freelancing also allows you to choose your hours and work from anywhere. So, it’s a perfect fit for someone on SIWES who needs to manage their time wisely.

How to Get Started:

Sign up on platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or Freelancer.
Create a compelling profile and showcase your skills.
Start small and gradually take on bigger projects as you gain confidence.

2. Tutoring

If you have a strong grasp of certain subjects, tutoring can be an excellent way to make money. There’s a high demand for tutors in Nigeria, especially for subjects like Mathematics, Physics, English, and even programming.

Many parents are willing to pay well for quality tutoring services to help their children perform better in school.

You can offer tutoring services in person or even online. There are platforms like Superprof or Tutor.ng that connect students with tutors.

If you have a knack for explaining complex topics in simple terms, this could be your ticket to earning extra income.

How to Get Started:

Advertise your tutoring services on social media or local bulletin boards.
Create a schedule that works for you, considering your SIWES hours.
Consider offering a free trial lesson to attract new clients.

3. Content Creation

Content creation is huge in Nigeria right now. Whether you’re into creating videos, writing blogs, or even podcasts, there’s an audience for your work. You can make money through various channels like YouTube, Instagram, or even blogging.

If you enjoy sharing your thoughts, tips, or reviews about things you’re passionate about, then starting a YouTube channel or Instagram account could be a great option.

While it may take some time to build a following, platforms like YouTube offer monetization options through ads and sponsorships once you hit certain milestones.

Blogging is another good option. If you’re skilled at writing, you can start a blog on topics you love or that relate to your field of study. As your blog gains traffic, you can monetize it through affiliate marketing or sponsored posts.

How to Get Started:

Choose a platform that suits you (YouTube, Instagram, or a blog).
Create content consistently and engage with your audience.
Look for monetization opportunities once you start gaining followers.

4. Selling Products Online

E-commerce is booming in Nigeria, and you don’t need a physical store to get started. You can sell products online through platforms like Jumia, Konga, or even on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram.

You can either sell your products or become a reseller. If you’re crafty or have a passion for creating things, you can sell handmade items like jewellery, clothing, or accessories.

If you prefer not to create your products, you can buy goods in bulk and resell them for a profit. There’s a huge market for fashion, beauty products, and tech gadgets.

Selling online also gives you the flexibility to manage your business while on SIWES. The best part is you don’t need a huge upfront investment to get started, and with the right products and marketing, you can make a good profit.

How to Get Started:

Choose the products you want to sell.
Create an online store on platforms like Jumia, Konga, or Instagram.
Promote your products through ads or by reaching out to your network.

5. Social Media Management

If you spend a lot of time on social media, why not turn it into an income stream? Social media management is in high demand, as businesses and individuals need help running their social media accounts.

This can involve creating content, posting updates, interacting with followers, and even handling customer service inquiries.

If you have a good eye for design, an understanding of how different platforms work, and know how to engage an audience, social media management could be an excellent way to make money.

You don’t need to be an expert to start; with some practice and research, you’ll quickly get the hang of it.

How to Get Started:

Look for businesses or individuals who may need help managing their social media.
Offer a free consultation or audit of their current social media presence.
Set your rates and begin building a portfolio of clients.

6. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing allows you to earn money by promoting other people’s products. Whenever someone purchases the product through your referral link, you earn a commission. It’s a great option if you already have a blog, website, or a strong social media presence.

There are several affiliate programs available, such as the Jumia Affiliate Program or the Konga Affiliate Program. These programs provide you with links to share on your website or social media. As long as your audience trusts your opinion, this can be a passive income stream that grows over time.

How to Get Started:

Sign up for an affiliate program.
Promote the products through your blog, YouTube, or social media.
Keep track of your sales and commissions.

7. Event Planning Assistance

Event planning is a booming industry in Nigeria, especially with weddings, birthdays, and corporate events happening all year round.

As a student, you might not be able to take on full-scale event planning, but you can assist with tasks such as setting up, managing guest lists, or coordinating logistics.

This is a great side hustle because you can often work on weekends or during breaks in your SIWES schedule. Event planners are always looking for extra hands to help with various tasks, and by joining an established team, you can learn the ropes and get paid for your efforts.

How to Get Started:

Reach out to local event planners and inquire about available positions.
Offer to assist with small tasks to get your foot in the door.
Build connections and expand your network in the industry.

FAQs

Can I balance SIWES with these money-making ideas?

Yes, absolutely! Most of the options listed here, like freelancing, tutoring, and selling online, offer flexible hours. As long as you manage your time well, you can work on these side hustles while fulfilling your SIWES requirements.

Do I need any special skills to get started?

Not necessarily! While some side hustles like freelancing and social media management require skills, many of them offer learning opportunities as you go. The key is to start small, learn as you work, and gradually improve your skills.

How do I handle taxes for these income streams?

In Nigeria, you may not need to worry about tax deductions if you’re earning a small income. However, if your earnings grow, you should consider speaking with a tax professional to make sure you comply with tax regulations.

How long will it take to make money from these methods?

It depends on the side hustle. Freelancing and affiliate marketing can take some time to generate steady income, while tutoring and selling products online can offer quicker returns if done consistently.

Conclusion

As a SIWES student in Nigeria, it’s completely possible to earn extra money while gaining valuable work experience.

From freelancing online to selling products and even offering tutoring services, the options are endless. The key is to pick what aligns with your skills and interests, and manage your time effectively.

So, which of these money-making ideas will you try first?