The ongoing struggle in job hunting amidst graduate influx intensifies a competition for limited opportunities. Graduates must actively craft unique resumes, enhance interview skills and network extensively to stand out in the competitive job market.
Job seeking in Kenya has never been easy. The annual influx of graduate from universities and technical institutions further complicates the competition for limited job opportunities available.
Most hiring companies in Kenya requires job applicants to posses a minimum of two or more years of work experience, depending on the position. Paradoxically, these companies are unwilling to offer these graduates opportunities for learning and training as interns within their organizations. This situation has given rise to the famous Kenyan expression, ” Ni lazima ukue na job ndio upate job.” which translates to, you must have a job to get a job.
Furthermore, Kenyans consider “Tarmacking” a rite of passage for every graduate before securing their first job. This process involves graduates utilizing whatever limited resources they have to actively pursue job opportunities. “Tarmacking” is not for the faint heart; It demand resilience, a determined spirit and unwavering determination to withstand repeated rejections before finally achieving job success.
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In additon, the first job after graduation can aptly be termed “The job of finding a job.” This endeavor involves traveling from place to place, company to company, armed with a bundle of envelopes filled with certificates and testimonials. It continues untill yours shoes are worn out and your official shirt or blouse is bleached by the scorching sun’s heat. Only concluding when you finally secure a job.
However, In the quest for more promising career opportunities, an increasing number of Kenyan job seekers have chosen to journey abroad. Most of them disheartened by the challenges of finding employment in their homeland. These ambitious individuals are actively pursuing greener pastures in countries such as Australia, Saudi Arabia, Canada, Qatar and several others. Therefor,this global migration trend reflects their shared aspirations for improved job markets.
Desbite this, Kenyan professionals abroad actively manage immigration complexities and adapt to new cultures and environments. They also emphasize the importance of comprehensive initiatives within Kenya itself to address employement challenges and foster an environment condusive to domestic career growth and development.
