Degree Yangu Inasaidia Nani? Why Kenya's Graduates Are Jobless and Hopeless

By jelagat1 | July 12, 2025 | Category: Career & Education

Degree Yangu Inasaidia Nani? Why Kenya's Graduates Are Jobless and Hopeless

“I studied for years, graduated with honors — but three years later, I’m still searching for a stable job.” Brian, 26, University Graduate

In many Kenyan homes today, there is a common story: a bright young person worked hard through school, graduated from a reputable university, and yet, struggles to find employment.

While education is still one of the most valuable tools we have, many graduates are now asking, what next after graduation?

The Journey: Hope, Sacrifice, and Determination

Most graduates in Kenya come from humble backgrounds. Their journey through school is often filled with personal sacrifices — early mornings, late nights, and tight family budgets.

For some, families sold land, livestock, or took loans to educate their children, with one shared dream: a better future.

Graduation, once a symbol of success, has now become a new starting point filled with uncertainty.

What the Numbers Show

  • Each year, over 500,000 graduates enter the job market.

  • A significant portion struggles to secure employment, especially in their field of study.

  • Many end up in short-term gigs, informal jobs, or start small businesses to make ends meet.

This is not due to lack of ambition or hard work. It’s a reflection of a competitive job market, limited opportunities, and a mismatch between academic training and current industry demands.

So, What’s the Real Problem?

The issue is not that degrees are worthless — they are still important. The challenge is that the world is changing, and many university programs have not evolved fast enough to match modern job requirements.

In addition:

  • Many industries now seek experience and practical skills.

  • Soft skills like communication, creativity, and problem-solving are in high demand.

  • Technology and digital literacy are becoming essential across all careers.

The Way Forward: What Can Be Done?

Instead of focusing on blame, it’s time to focus on solutions that empower young people and make education more impactful.

Recommendations:

  1. Revamp University Curriculums

    – Align courses with job market trends and technology.

  2. Promote Skills Training and Internships

    – Encourage hands-on learning through structured internship programs.

  3. Expand Access to Business Support for Youth

    – Offer grants, mentorship, and training for graduates interested in entrepreneurship.

  4. Enhance Career Guidance

    – Help students identify opportunities early and build a strong professional path.

  5. Strengthen Public-Private Partnerships

    – Encourage companies to absorb and train young talent through incentives.

Final Thoughts: Hope Is Still Alive

"Being a graduate is not the end of the road. It’s just the beginning of a different kind of journey.”

To every graduate still searching, you are not alone. Kenya is full of potential, and so are you. With the right support, mindset, and policies, things can change — and they will.

Let’s continue pushing for a system that not only values education but also provides the opportunities to put it to use.

Have you or someone you know faced challenges after graduation? Share this article to keep the conversation going.


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