How it feels: Transitioning from internship to jobless corner

For many students, completing internship is a moment filled with hope.

They anticipate employment or retention at the respective organisations where they interned. But what happens when that opportunity doesn't materialise? 

Many find themselves in a dilemma, unsure of their next steps. 

Should they further their education, return home, start a business, begin job hunting, or even consider marriage? These are the questions that flood the minds of young graduates as they face an uncertain future.

These uncertainties often lead to significant stress and pressure, compounded by the expectations of social media, parents, and the desire for personal development. The result for some is a descent into depression, as they struggle to navigate the complex transition from education to employment.

Nancy Wanjiku, who recently graduated from university, completed her internship at the age of 23. 

Despite being a bright and ambitious young woman, Ms Wanjiku tells AVDelta News that now she faces the harsh reality of not getting a job as swift as she would have liked.

"No one talks about the pressure after finishing school, especially when you come from a family where everyone depends on you,I am the eldest of five siblings, and my parents have invested everything in me, hoping that once I graduate, I will secure a job. Their daily struggles are tied to my success, and now, I’m not sure what to do next," Ms Wanjiku narrates.

Her situation is similar to that of Collins Weru, a mechanics graduate, who narrates how he has dropped his curriculum vitae (CV) to most of the companies, applying for jobs but he is yet to get any.

"I have written a lot of CVs and dropped them in these companies hoping that I will get a call informing me that I have been picked but all is in vain," narrates Mr Weru.

For Brian Ouma, he was somewhat lucky because he was offered a contract by the company where he did internship. 

However, his reality is far from what he expected.

"I was excited when they called me to sign the contract. I thought my dream job had arrived, and I wouldn't have to struggle. But the salary which I am receiving is barely enough. It doesn’t last long before I am broke again," says Mr Ouma.

The challenges faced by these youths are not unique.

According to recent statistics, youth unemployment in Kenya is on the rise, particularly among recent graduates. 

The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) reports that approximately 35 percent of Kenyan youths are unemployed, with a significant portion being recent graduates. 

For those aged 20-24, the unemployment rate is around 22 percent, while it stands at 16 percent for those aged 25-29.

These figures underscore a growing crisis. 

Graduates often face a mismatch between their qualifications and available job opportunities, leading to underemployment. 

The immense pressure to succeed quickly can result in mental health challenges, including anxiety, and depression.

As the number of unemployed graduates continues to increase, there is an urgent need for structural changes in the job market.

More robust support systems and career guidance are essential to help young people transition smoothly from education to employment. 

Without such interventions, the uncertainty and stress that graduates like Ms Wanjiku and Mr Weru experience will only intensify.