Being an Unemployed Graduate

Education has affected my abilities and attitude to life.

Learning has been implanted in me from a young age, so I eventually obtained an honours degree in education and mathematics at Rundu after completing my school career at Haimbili Haufiku Senior Secondary School.

University life was a mix of struggles and growth.

While studying, I braided hair part-time to support myself, developing the skills of time management and perseverance.

I also interacted with student organisations that enhanced my leadership and networking skills.

After graduation, I entered the job market hopeful – only to encounter the harsh reality of unemployment.

Despite my background, finding employment has not been easy.

Most graduates face the same issues – little experience, skills gaps, stiff competition, and the emotional brunt of constant rejection.

I once attended a job interview with over 500 other applicants. That morning I asked myself: “How will I be seen among so many?”

Financial pressure is a major challenge. Applying for jobs requires money for printing documents, courier services, and transport to interviews.

Sometimes we’re seen as not being serious or lazy, when in truth we’re doing our best.

There’s also the issue of being overqualified.

When we apply for jobs outside our field of specialisation simply to earn a living, employers end up rejecting us for being “too qualified”.

Graduates lose confidence in the long run. So, what can be done?

The government can help by providing job search assistance funds and increasing employment opportunities in education, for instance, making non-promotional subjects promotional ones, creating special posts for subjects such as arts and information technology.

Institutions must rethink how many students are being admitted to courses with limited job opportunities.

I’ve now started braiding hair from home to grow my salon business.

I intend to rent a space, hire other unemployed graduates, and grow together.

I’m also forming an association of graduates like me to promote growth and help each other.

To my fellow jobless graduates: Stay optimistic and calm.

Keep networking and reskilling, and keep an eye on opportunities.

You are not alone, and your next opportunity may be just around the corner.

• Elizabeth Jerobiam is an unemployed University of Namibia graduate. She can be reached on social media
@selfsatisfied_queen or 081 896 2914.

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