Perceptions of University Graduate Youth on the significance of University training in enhancing Graduate Youth Employment in Nairobi County, Kenya.

Abstract

Statistics have shown an overwhelming number of graduate unemployment and there is need for a holistic, in-depth view of university training that focuses on quality teaching, practical learning and career mentorship that would bear the expected outcomes for enhancing graduate youth employment. This study therefore sought to critically analyze the perceptions of graduate youth on the influence of university training in enhancing graduate youth employment in Nairobi County, Kenya. The specific objectives of this study were to examine the perceptions of graduate youth on the significance of different teaching methodologies in building graduate employment skills, assess the perceptions of graduate youth on the importance of practical learning in enhancing graduate youth employability and evaluate the perceptions of graduate youth on the effects of university career mentorship programmes in enhancing graduate youth employment in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study was anchored on the Human Capital Theory (HCT) and Modernization Theories that attempt to give an in-depth explanation of the expansion and development of educational institutions and the perceived relationship between training and employment. The study adopted descriptive research design to assess the relationship among variables. University graduates in Nairobi County within the last five years and between 21-35 years from Nairobi, Kenyatta and Jomo Kenyatta Universities formed the target population with a statistically significant sample of 399 respondents. The research employed self-selection and purposive sampling techniques. Quantitative and qualitative data was collected through questionnaires and a focus group discussion respectively. Data collected was subjected to SPSS version 20 system for descriptive analysis i.e. frequencies and cross tabulations then presented in form of tables, charts and graphs for easy interpretation. The study revealed that according to the graduate youth, lecturers from the three universities mainly employ teacher-centered techniques in lesson delivery specifically lectures and use of printed notes/handouts which are less significant in building graduate employment skills compared to student-centered teaching techniques which are preferred. The study also established that as stated by the graduate youth, practical learning plays a key role in enhancing graduate youth employment with the need for universities to offer more opportunities for attachments, educational tours and group projects to increase students’ hands-on experience and exposure to the real world. Additionally, the study established that as claimed by the graduate youth career mentorship as a major contributor to graduate youth employment is under exploited and much more should be explored. Therefore, the study drew the conclusion that with bold and coordinated efforts, university training in Kenya will harness its full potential in enhancing graduate employment and recommends some of the best practices that can be adopted by universities to improve their quality in training and produce skilful, productive graduates.