Four years down the line, however, employment in his chosen sector remains elusive “I have applied everywhere, but securing employment has been difficult. If only our lecturers were frank enough to tell us the truth, I wouldn’t have wasted my time going to university,” said Mubayiwa.
The youth’s dilemma is a common one, with thousands of qualified job seekers finding it impossible to find work in their area of expertise. Professionals who decide not to search for work abroad, end up doing menial jobs in the informal sector.
Victor Gumbo, who has a diploma in marketing, said he has resorted to vending as jobs are difficult to come by.
“I cannot survive by merely looking at my certificate, I have to work. Selling newspapers and recharge cards is not that noble, but I have to do it for the sake of my family. Jobs are difficult to find, especially when you don’t have anyone you know,” said Gumbo.
The informal sector has proved to be the biggest employer of qualified personnel in the country. Recently the government stopped recruiting nurses as the unemployment rate was soaring. It is believed that plans are underway to export these personnel to neighbouring countries like Zambia where there is a great demand for them.
Until a time when the government has clear cut strategies for its people, the future of graduates will remain bleak. Terearai will continue his endless search for employment, while Victor will play cat and mouse with the municipal police as he strives to make a living selling newspapers.
Post published in: News