A video of a graduate from a local university burning his academic certificates elicited mixed reactions among Kenyans on Saturday, June 10.
Reports claimed the young man was frustrated after failing to secure a job.
From the documents, the job seeker completed high school in 2017 and scored a Grade B before proceeding to university, graduating in July 2022.
Among the burnt documents were the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE), the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), and other documents.
The viral video irked a section of Kenyans who argued that the young generation was too irrational when facing a real-life crisis.
Some argued that since he graduated in 2022, it was too soon to expect employment owing to the tough economic times and high unemployment rate.
Questions were also raised about his experience, with employers known to demand evidence of years of work, skills gathered and recommendations among qualifications.
"Only one year out of school, and he is already burning his certificates? He is not patient enough. Can he afford to work under pressure?" a comment read.
Others blamed the government for creating an environment unfavourable for educated graduates, forcing them to wallow in depression.
Fresh graduates were urged to be open-minded and patient while awaiting employment.
"University is meant to open and expand your mind, offer you critical thinking and problem solving skills," another advised.
Furthermore, they were advised to acquire technical skills that will help them propel their passion and provide for themselves as they await a job. However, others were sceptical of the stunt, arguing that the graduate only burnt copies of the certificates.
"I doubt these are the original copies, but if they are, he needs to change his attitude and learn patience," a tweep commented.
In 2021, President William Ruto (then Deputy President) promised to create over four million jobs for the youth if elected President.
One of the measures through which the Ruto administration sought to create jobs was to empower the ICT sector in the country.
"For the first time we have an intentional coherent, credible plan for making sure that we organise our economy in such a manner that is going to create jobs for our youth," Ruto stated on May 21.
The unemployment rate in Kenya, according to the Kenya Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), shrank to 4.9 per cent between October to December 2022, a 0.7 percentage point decline from 5.6 per cent in the same period in 2021.
Counsellors, medics, and psychologists advise you always to seek help when experiencing any mental health issues. Call Kenya Red Cross toll-free hotline, 1199, for support.
