Expert Offers Life Hacks for Jobless Graduates in Kenya

After completing studies, many graduates find themselves in a dilemma awaiting the next step in their lives.

However, according to the Kenya National Bureau Of Statistics (KNBS) Quarter 3 Labor Force Report, people between the ages 20-24 and 25-29 experience the highest rates of long-term unemployment.

Besides applying for jobs, there are other opportunities one can look into.

Kenyans.co.ke spoke to Nakuru County Civil Society Representative and Founder of Tribeless Youth, Shikoh Kihika, to explore how young Kenyans can escape joblessness after completing their studies. 

Here is a list entailing suggestions you can consider after completing your certificate, diploma or undergraduate.

Youth following President Uhuru Kenyatta's speech at Sagana State Lodge, Sunday, January 31, 2021.

PSCU

1) Applying For An Internship

Internship opportunities enables one not only to learn and gain experience in their respective field but also boost their curriculum vitae in applying for jobs that may require one to have done an internship as part of their criteria. 

2) Taking Up Volunteering Opportunities

This is yet another avenue one can venture in. Volunteering opens doors for you to gain new skills which may lead to a career change e.g. working with a community-based organization may lead you to project management. 

It also allows you to gain professional experience related to your field of interest before getting a job.

Constable Caroline Makena interacting with students in Elgeyo-Marakwet during a community outreach drive.

File

3) Focus On Your Skill Or Talent

Maximizing your skill/talent enables you to live off either what you’re good at or passionate about.

Kihika mentions the innovation of skills being important with the influence of digital media. 

“We all cannot be entrepreneurs but gaining these skills will either enable us to be entrepreneurs or to be employed,” stated Kihika.

4) Working Where You Studied

Many institutions of higher learning have platforms for their immediate alumni to work as they await formal employment. 

This can also give you a start to your working career as you work at the school canteen, library, laboratory, or even as a apprentice lecturer. 

Strathmore University, Nairobi

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5) Entrepreneurship

During this time, an idea of a product or service may turn into a business opportunity.

Kihika notes that the youth can create employment opportunities if they come up with good business plans and tap into the funds under the Youth Enterprise. 

“The entrepreneurs we currently have need to employ these young people.” mentions Kihika.

Esther Mugera, the owner of a successful catering business born out of Ksh300 investment.

Twitter

6) Content Creation

The emergence of digital media has provided social media platforms that people can capitalize on.

The job coach mentions how creative the youth can be with the digital space evolving every day. 

“The ICT and creative sectors are yet to bring in the most money amongst all other sectors... we need to look at entrepreneurship, digital marketing and innovation of skills and talents”

“We must learn how to monetize our creativity.” commented Kihika.