As a nation experiencing both growth and challenges in almost equal measures, Uganda faces a notable disconnect between job opportunities and the skills of its workforce. Despite improvements in education over the years, marked by among others the recent rise of the popular international schools, many of the young populace of Uganda, especially the famous Gen Z find it quite difficult to secure employment due to a lack of alignment between their education and the job market’s needs. Reality has rubbed many of them in the face that education is far from being the key to success as earlier emphasised by society. This is why we examine the country’s economic landscape, and its education system, and highlight urgent job opportunities that require minimal or no formal qualifications as a response to the dilemma of jobs-do-not-fit-our-profession. Because hey! If you wait to land that job you went to school for, you will have to wait a little longer…
John Kasozi, 27, a Business Administration graduate from Kyambogo University and a resident of Katwe, Kampala, has been struggling to find a stable job despite his academic achievements and numerous applications. He faces the harsh reality of Uganda’s job market, where many young graduates like him remain unemployed due to limited opportunities. Living in a small mud-and-wattle house with his parents and 7 siblings, John feels the pressure to support his family, but his daily routine of sending resumes and attending interviews has been met with rejection and disappointment. He has now buried his frustrations in cheap drugs.
Sarah Atyang, 27, graduated with an Information Technology degree; she shares a similar fate. Despite her technical skills and strong academic record, she struggles to find a job that matches her qualifications. Like John, she has faced countless rejections and is now considering alternative paths that require fewer formal qualifications.
John and Sarah represent a wider population staring into the face of a pervasive issue in Uganda: the mismatch between the education system and the job market. The gap between academic training and the practical needs of the workforce leaves many graduates frustrated and uncertain.
Here is a fuller picture; let’s talk some numbers! Uganda’s economy has seen considerable growth, with a GDP growth rate of 6.3% in 2020, according to the World Bank. However, this growth has not been uniformly beneficial. The country grapples with a high unemployment rate, especially among the youth. The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) reported that the unemployment rate for individuals aged 18-30 was 13.3% in 2020. This statistic qualifies the pressing need for job creation and the alignment of job opportunities with the skills of the workforce. Though the country’s education system has grown in scope and reach, it frequently falls short in preparing students for the practical demands of the job market. Educational programs often emphasize theoretical knowledge over practical skills. A report by the International Labour Organization (ILO) highlights that the education system in Uganda needs significant reforms to better address the evolving needs of the labor market. The gap between what is taught and what is required in the workforce contributes to the high unemployment rates.
Despite these challenges, several job opportunities in Uganda require minimal or no formal qualifications. These roles often focus on practical skills and offer immediate employment prospects. Take a look through, will you?
Sales Representatives
Companies across various sectors seek sales representatives to promote their products and services. This role demands strong communication skills, persuasion, resilience in the scorching sun of dusty Kampala, and the ability to work under pressure.
- Roofings Group: Looking for a Sales Executive – Export on a commission basis.
- Asaak Financial Services: Looking for 12 Sales Representatives on a commission basis.
- Icea Lion Life Assurance Company Ltd: Looking for 300 Life Insurance Sales Agents on a commission-only basis.
- Trailmycar Solutions Limited: Looking for 15 Sales and Marketing Executives on a commission basis.
- Kolaborate: Looking for a Sales Executive on a commission basis.
- Printing Company: Looking for 4 Sales Executives on a commission basis.
Customer Service Representatives
The growth of the service sector has increased the demand for customer service representatives. These positions require excellent communication skills, patience, and problem-solving abilities. For example, call centers for banks or retail companies often need representatives to handle customer inquiries and resolve issues. Companies such as Airtel Uganda, MTN Uganda, and Stanbic Bank Uganda are currently seeking individuals for these roles.
Data Entry Clerks
As businesses digitize their operations, data entry clerks are needed to input and manage information. This job involves attention to detail and proficiency with basic computer software. Local businesses, as well as organizations like the Uganda Revenue Authority, National Social Security Fund (NSSF), and Absa Bank Uganda, require data entry clerks to manage customer records and transaction details.
Security Guards
Security guards play a crucial role in maintaining safety and security at various locations, including businesses, residential areas, and public events. This job requires vigilance, reliability, and basic training, though formal educational qualifications are often not necessary. Shopping malls or office buildings frequently hire security personnel to oversee operations and respond to incidents. Securiko Uganda, Uganda Security Services, and G4S Security Services are examples of companies looking to hire security guards.
Drivers
With a burgeoning transportation sector, there is a high demand for drivers to operate vehicles such as taxis, buses, and trucks. This job requires a valid driver’s license and good driving skills rather than formal education. Ride-hailing services, along with organizations like the Uganda Red Cross Society, World Food Programme (WFP), and UNICEF Uganda, are regularly in need of drivers.
Cleaners, Housekeeping Staff, and Waiters
Cleaners and housekeeping staff are essential for maintaining cleanliness in homes, offices, and public facilities. This role requires diligence and reliability but typically does not need formal qualifications. Hotels and office buildings, including Kampala Serena Hotel, Speke Resort Munyonyo, Imperial Royale Hotel, Eureka Hotel, Landstar Hotel, The Lawns Restaurant, Café Javas, Khana Khazana Restaurant, and Water Park, often hire cleaning staff, especially for temporary gigs.
Please note that job listings may have certain requirements and deadlines, and it’s always best to check the company websites or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.
In the end, we all shall be caused to understand or re-understand that education is the key to the mind, not to the door of a blissful future.
