The belief that higher education broadens an individual’s perspective on the job market, industry trends, and employer expectations is widely held. With this knowledge, graduates are often expected to adopt a strategic approach to their job search, making them more appealing to potential employers.
However, this was not the case for Kelvin Makachia Osore. Despite earning a first-class honours degree in 2018 from Kenyatta University with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics, Makachia’s journey took an unexpected turn. He now pushes a cart for survival.
In an interview with The Standard, Makachia revealed the harsh reality he has faced since graduation. After submitting over 200 job applications and visiting numerous companies in the Industrial Area, he found himself in a disheartening position: a degree-holder with no employment opportunities.
“The many months I have ‘tarmacked’ and struggled have been utterly disappointing for my family and me, especially my mother, who regrets taking a loan to fund my university education,” he lamented.
Despite the setbacks, Makachia refused to let unemployment define him. Instead, he made a bold decision to leverage his resourcefulness and forge a new path.
“Since I knew someone who could lend me a cart, I decided to start vending water and carrying luggage for clients such as stall owners in the Soweto area,” he explained.
His days now begin at 4 a.m., collecting water from school boreholes in Soweto and delivering it to residents for a fee of 20 shillings per jerrican. On a good day, he earns up to Sh900 in profit, a modest but steady income compared to the uncertainty of prolonged job hunting.
Makachia’s story is a testament to resilience and adaptability. While he may not have secured the formal employment he aspired to, he has discovered the strength to create his own opportunities and thrive in the face of adversity. His journey serves as an inspiration to many who find themselves in similar circumstances, reminding them that perseverance and innovation can lead to success even in the most challenging situations.
