By Francess Hawanatu Kamara

The issue of high unemployment continues to be a significant challenge in Sierra Leone, particularly affecting the nation’s university graduates. Despite earning degrees and aspiring for better futures, many young graduates find themselves struggling to secure employment.

This pervasive problem has far-reaching implications not only for the individuals affected but also for the country’s socio-economic development.

Recent statistics reveal that the unemployment rate among young people, particularly university graduates, is alarmingly high. With an estimated youth unemployment rate exceeding 60%, Sierra Leone faces a crisis that threatens the stability and progress of its society. The country’s higher education institutions churn out thousands of graduates each year, but the job market is not expanding at a commensurate pace to absorb this influx of skilled individuals.

The Graduate Dilemma

Graduates from universities across Sierra Leone enter the job market with high hopes and expectations. They have invested time, money, and effort into their education, believing it to be a ticket to a better life. However, the reality they face upon graduation is often starkly different. Many are confronted with the harsh reality of limited job opportunities, underemployment, or jobs that do not match their qualifications and skills.

A significant hurdle for many graduates is the unreasonable job requirements set by employers. Many companies demand several years of experience from applicants, even for entry-level positions. This expectation is unrealistic for fresh graduates who are just starting their careers. The insistence on extensive experience overlooks the fact that many job skills can be acquired on the job through training and practical work. This barrier not only discourages young graduates but also perpetuates the cycle of unemployment.

The high unemployment rate among university graduates has several detrimental effects on both the economy and society at large. Firstly, it represents a significant waste of human capital. Graduates who are unable to find suitable employment are not able to contribute productively to the economy, resulting in a loss of potential output. This underutilization of educated youth stifles innovation and economic growth, leaving the country trapped in a cycle of poverty and underdevelopment.

Moreover, the high unemployment rate exacerbates social issues such as poverty, crime, and mental health problems. Graduates who are unable to secure jobs often experience feelings of frustration, hopelessness, and inadequacy. This psychological burden can lead to increased rates of depression and anxiety, which in turn affect overall well-being and productivity. Additionally, the lack of employment opportunities can drive young people towards illicit activities, including drug abuse and crime, as they struggle to make ends meet.

Underlying Causes of High Unemployment Among University Graduates in Sierra Leone

The high unemployment rate among university graduates in Sierra Leone is driven by multiple factors. Firstly, there is a significant mismatch between the skills taught in universities and the demands of the job market. Graduates often leave school with theoretical knowledge but lack the practical skills and experience that employers seek.

Economic instability is another major factor. Sierra Leone’s economy is heavily dependent on natural resources, which are subject to global market fluctuations. This instability hampers the ability of both the public and private sectors to create and sustain jobs. Compounding this is the country’s limited industrialization, which means fewer opportunities for graduates in sectors that typically require higher education qualifications. The economy is predominantly focused on agriculture and mining, industries that do not absorb many university graduates.

The weak entrepreneurship ecosystem also contributes to the problem. There is a lack of support for entrepreneurship and small business development, which could provide alternative employment opportunities. Graduates face challenges such as limited access to finance, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of business mentorship, all of which hinder the growth of start-ups.

Corruption and governance issues further exacerbate the situation. Corruption and inefficient governance practices undermine economic development and investor confidence, leading to fewer job opportunities. Graduates often struggle to navigate a system rife with nepotism and favoritism, where jobs are not always awarded based on merit.

Lastly, unreasonable job requirements from employers pose another significant barrier. Many entry-level positions demand unrealistic levels of experience, making it nearly impossible for fresh graduates to qualify. This practice not only discourages young job seekers but also overlooks the potential for on-the-job learning and training.

Together, these factors create a challenging environment for university graduates in Sierra Leone, leading to high unemployment rates and limited opportunities for young professionals.

Voices of the Graduates

Hearing directly from the affected graduates paints a vivid picture of the struggles they face. Mariama, a recent graduate with a degree in business administration, shares her experience: “After graduating, I was hopeful that I would quickly find a job. But it has been over a year, and I am still unemployed. I have sent out countless applications, but the responses are few and far between. It is disheartening to see my dreams slipping away.”

Another graduate, John, who studied engineering, echoes similar sentiments: “The job market is extremely competitive, and there are very few opportunities for fresh graduates like myself. I am currently working as a shop assistant, which is not what I envisioned when I started my degree. It feels like all my efforts have been in vain.”

Fatmata, a Mass Communication graduate, highlights the challenge of unrealistic job requirements: “Most of the job postings I come across require at least five years of experience, even for entry-level positions. How am I supposed to gain that experience if no one is willing to hire me in the first place? It’s incredibly frustrating.”

The high unemployment rate among university graduates in Sierra Leone remains a pressing issue, contributing to social instability and economic stagnation. Tackling this problem requires a comprehensive strategy that addresses various underlying factors. Here are some potential solutions:

Curriculum Reform and Skills Development

   Current Issue: University curricula often fail to align with market demands.

   Solution: Update curricula to include practical skills training, internships, and partnerships with industries to better prepare graduates for the workforce.

Economic Diversification

   Current Issue: Over-reliance on natural resources limits job opportunities.

   Solution: Develop sectors such as manufacturing, information technology, and tourism to create more diverse job opportunities for graduates.

Entrepreneurship Support

Current Issue: Graduates face challenges in starting their own businesses.

Solution: Enhance support for entrepreneurship by improving access to finance, providing business training, and creating a conducive environment for start-ups.

Strengthening Governance

Current Issue: Corruption and poor governance deter investment.

   Solution: Combat corruption and improve governance practices to boost investor confidence and economic growth, leading to more job creation.

Enhancing Job Placement Services

Current Issue: Graduates struggle to connect with potential employers.

Solution: Improve job placement services, career counseling, and job fairs through collaboration between universities and the government.

Promoting Technical and Vocational Education

Current Issue: Overemphasis on university education leaves vocational skills underdeveloped.

   Solution: Encourage technical and vocational education to equip young people with practical skills in demand, reducing pressure on the job market for university graduates.

Reevaluating Job Requirements

Current Issue: Employers often set high job requirements that exclude recent graduates.

Solution: Encourage employers to reconsider and possibly lower job requirements to better match the skills of new graduates.

The high unemployment rate among university graduates in Sierra Leone is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. By addressing the underlying causes and implementing comprehensive solutions, the country can harness the potential of its educated youth and pave the way for sustainable economic development. Graduates, armed with their education and skills, are a valuable asset that Sierra Leone cannot afford to waste. It is imperative to create an environment where their talents can be fully utilized, contributing to the nation’s growth and prosperity.