Graduates voice frustrations, anger over job market challenges

By Sodiq Adelakun

The scourge of unemployment in Nigeria has reached pandemic proportions, with over 500,000 graduates annually joining the ranks of frustrated job seekers.

These graduates are now raising their voices in collective frustration, highlighting the myriad challenges they face in securing employment in a fiercely competitive job market.

Amidst the promise of higher education in Nigeria, a growing number of graduates express profound disappointment as the reality of joblessness grips the nation’s workforce.

In separate interviews with Nigerian NewsDirect, these individuals shed light on their struggles to secure employment aligned with their fields of study, highlighting systemic failures and a pervasive sense of disillusionment with the Nigerian education system.

The prevalence of unemployment among graduates has become a pressing concern, with university world news records indicating a staggering 600,000 graduates churned out annually.

This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for reforms to address the widening gap between education and employability.

Adekunle Micheal, a graduate of Computer Science from the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), found himself navigating the streets as a cobbler after years of fruitless job searches in his chosen field.

Despite the initial disheartening experience, Micheal embraces his new vocation with determination, underscoring his adaptability in the face of adversity.

He said, “Initially, I felt disheartened and frustrated after years of searching for a job in my field. However, I’ve come to embrace my new path as a cobbler with determination and resilience. Every step I take in this journey is a testament to my adaptability and willingness to make the best of any situation.”

Similarly, Ayoade Dupeola, a graduate with a Mass Communication degree from D.S Adegbenro Polytechnic, recounts his frustration at being repeatedly denied opportunities in his field.

Forced to settle for a teaching position, Dupeola condemns the systemic failures that thwarted his aspirations, labelling it a betrayal of his hard work and dedication.

Olaoye Habeeb, a first-class graduate in Business Administration, echoes the sentiment, lamenting the lack of recognition for graduates’ talents in Nigeria’s employment system.

Finding solace in music, Habeeb charts his path to fulfilment, rebelling against traditional career trajectories constrained by societal norms.

According to him, “It’s a shame that Nigeria’s employment system fails to recognise and utilise the talents of its first-class graduates. Embracing my passion for music is my way of reclaiming control over my future and finding fulfillment outside of traditional career paths.

“So, what is the essence of going to school in Nigeria higher institutions when jobs are not guaranteed or is there something wrong with the syllabus and why are graduates not employable.”

As the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) reports annual participation of no fewer than 400,000 graduates, the scheme serves as both a beacon of hope and a stark reminder of the challenges plaguing Nigeria’s youth.

Despite its efforts in promoting national integration, the NYSC’s endeavours pale in comparison to the magnitude of the unemployment crisis, leaving graduates grappling with an uncertain future.