Young people are struggling to find jobs even after working so hard to get an education and skills training in various fields. Despite obtaining college certificates, university degrees, and other qualifications, there are not enough opportunities in the labour market. Some lucky ones get hired in fields not related to the academic and professional qualifications they hold.
Indeed, youth unemployment is a severe crisis, with more than 60 per cent of those aged 15 to 34 being unemployed, underemployed, or just economically inactive. It is a worrying scenario that is compounded by over 500,000 to 800,000 young Kenyans finishing school and entering the job market every year.
The formal sector creates far too few jobs to absorb these new workers, leaving millions idle or stuck in the poor informal economy. Young women face even higher rates of exclusion and underemployment. This sorry situation is hardly surprising, considering the country’s tough economic challenges. But it gets worse as the school leavers lack the practical and technical skills that employers demand.
Economic growth fails to keep pace with the rapid rise in college and university graduates. Many end up in the unregulated informal employment with low pay and job insecurity. Youth, who form 35 per cent of the population, face the highest unemployment rate of 67 per cent. Many find limited opportunities in their areas of training. Youth need opportunities to realise their potential.
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