In 2023, the Namibian reported that tertiary institutions produced over 84,000 graduates in the previous five years, in addition more than 6,900 graduates entered the workforce in 2024 alone. Yet, for many of these graduates, the prospects of securing an entry-level position remain grim. Namibia’s youth unemployment rate is estimated to exceed 40%, with challenges such as mismatched skill sets, limited job readiness, and an oversaturated labour market compounding the issue.
This article offers strategies and guidance to help graduates position themselves favourably in the job market, develop essential skills, and make informed decisions about career pivots.
Building a Personal Brand: Your Professional Cornerstone
A personal brand goes beyond a polished LinkedIn profile or a strong social media presence—it embodies your career aspirations, values, skills, and societal contributions. It starts with clear goals and extends to how you present yourself online and in-person. Moreover, engaging in meaningful projects, finding a mentor, and participating in extracurricular activities, aid you in crafting out a personal brand.
Graduates can further enhance their visibility by attending industry events, contributing to community initiatives, and showcasing their achievements. These efforts lay a solid foundation for professional opportunities and long-term success.
Upskilling and Extracurricular Engagement: A Path to Professional Growth
Upskilling for the Modern Workforce
Staying ahead in today’s dynamic job market requires continuous learning. Upskilling enables graduates to align their expertise with industry trends, enhancing their value to employers. Many organisations offer funding for employees seeking professional development, for those without employment, online resources are the more affordable and accessible options.
Platforms such as GetSmarter, Coursera, EdX, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer specialised courses taught by top institutions and experts. For instance, Coursera provides free access to course materials via its “audit course” feature, although premium features require payment. By leveraging these platforms, graduates can develop technical and soft skills, enhance sector-specific knowledge, and improve their employability.
The Power of Extracurriculars
Engaging in community projects, volunteering, and attending networking events can provide invaluable practical experience, industry insights, and skill development. Organisations such as the African Pathfinder Leaders Initiative (APLI) offer programs that foster leadership, personal development and social responsibility among youth. Similarly, the Physically Active Youth (PAY) programme enables volunteers to support education, sports and various activities for disadvantaged youth, which is a gateway for understanding servant leadership.
Initiatives such as the Global Shapers Windhoek Hub’s annual Market Readiness ShapeSkills programme equips unemployed youth with skills in project management, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation. Networking events hosted by the Namibia Business Angel Network (NABAN), Young Investment Professionals Club (YIP), and Namibia Youth Energy Forum (NYEF) provide exposure to business operations in startups, investment, and the energy industry respectively..
When to Pivot: Exploring New Career Horizons
The realities of Namibia’s labour market, including oversaturated professions and a mismatch between graduate output and market demand, mean that many may need to consider alternative career paths. With emerging sectors such as oil, gas, and green energy offering significant potential, pivoting to a field with better employment prospects could be a prudent choice.
However, career pivots should be approached cautiously. Graduates must assess how a new direction aligns with their long-term goals and ensure they have the necessary skills and experience to transition successfully. Awareness of global socio-economic trends and Namibia’s evolving industries can guide such decisions.
Conclusion: Becoming a Proactive Graduate
While universities play their part by offering career days and mandatory internships, navigating Namibia’s competitive job market ultimately requires a proactive approach. Graduates who cultivate a compelling personal brand, engage in community and extracurricular activities, and consistently upskill themselves stand a better chance of success. By seeking out opportunities and taking charge of their professional development, graduates can transform challenges into stepping stones for a rewarding career.
*Joe Mubusisi, a recent graduate of the Namibia University of Science and Technology, is a Junior Analyst at Eos Capital with an interest in investments, professional development, and community engagement.