In Kenya, as in various global settings, education is widely seen as a pathway to success and a promising future. Young scholars invest their time, energy, and aspirations in the pursuit of higher education, envisioning lucrative careers and the creation of a prosperous life.
However, the harsh reality for many graduates, exemplified by individuals like Evans Kibet, diverges significantly from these optimistic aspirations, as they grapple with the formidable challenges of unemployment and deferred dreams.
A Pursuit of Knowledge and Dreams of Triumph
Evans Kibet embarked on his educational journey with enthusiasm and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of education. Progressing from primary school through high school and eventually onto a university campus, he demonstrated unwavering determination and an insatiable thirst for knowledge.
His goal was clear: to obtain academic qualifications that would pave the way for a successful career, envisioning roles such as a graduate teacher or even a university professor.
The Promising Path to Graduation
For a significant portion of his educational journey, Kibet appeared to be on a trajectory aligned with his aspirations. He diligently acquired the necessary academic qualifications, skills, and experience, setting the stage for what seemed to be a promising career in academia.
Upon completing his undergraduate program with a second-class upper division Bachelor of Education (Arts) degree from Kenyatta University in 2013, Kibet’s ambition to become a university professor started to take shape. Opting to pursue postgraduate studies just a year after graduation, he believed that obtaining a master’s degree before seeking employment would enhance his chances of success.
The Harsh Reality of Unemployment
During his postgraduate studies, Kibet’s trajectory appeared to align with his ambitions. The university recognized his potential, involving him, along with other students, in roles where they supervised and evaluated fellow students in various academic capacities.
However, Kibet’s dreams faced an abrupt interruption due to unforeseen challenges. Changes implemented by the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service, including a reduction in capitation fees, inadvertently left Kibet and many others unemployed.
This unexpected turn of events thrust them into an uncertain sea where job opportunities became scarce, and their academic qualifications felt more like burdens than assets.
Desperation and the Sale of Academic Certificates
Confronted with the harsh reality of prolonged unemployment and shattered aspirations, Kibet contemplated a drastic measure. He considered selling his academic certificates, including his ID card, transcripts, and certificates, to the highest bidder.
This desperate decision stemmed from the depths of despair he had experienced in his pursuit of a brighter future. “I am selling my ID card, certificates, and transcripts. I am not showcasing my modest achievements but searching for a serious buyer,” he bravely declared.
These valuable documents were listed for sale with an asking price of Sh5 million or awarded to the highest bidder, exposing his struggles for all to witness.
The Struggles of Many Graduates
Evans Kibet’s story reflects the challenges faced by numerous well-educated individuals in Kenya and beyond. Despite their commendable academic achievements and unwavering determination, they find themselves trapped in a cycle of unemployment, compelled to downplay their qualifications during interviews to secure even the most modest opportunities.
