Student perspectives on higher education and employability in Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa

Despite the substantial improvements in access to higher education in Sub-Saharan Africa in recent years, there are continuing concerns about the quality of universities and the preparedness of graduates for the labour market.... [ view full abstract ]

Despite the substantial improvements in access to higher education in Sub-Saharan Africa in recent years, there are continuing concerns about the quality of universities and the preparedness of graduates for the labour market. However, there has been little attention as yet to student perspectives on these critical issues. This paper presents interim findings of a three-year study on Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa, involving a large scale survey of final year students, as well as qualitative interviews and focus groups. Student views are analysed in relation to three dimensions: career aspirations; prospects and preparedness for the labour market; and the role of universities. Findings show a marked emphasis on entrepreneurship, and a preference for self-employment over traditional salaried jobs, particularly in Kenya. In addition to a concern for employment, students also show a broader commitment the development of society, and to ‘giving back’ to their communities of origin. Contrary to popular perceptions, students display awareness of the conditions of the labour market, skills requirements and potential constraints. However, there is limited evidence of the ability to critically evaluate their own institutions, signalling either ‘adaptive preferences’, lack of an alternative benchmark or deference to authority. These findings highlight the relative disempowerment of students in many of these universities, and the need for the emergence of a more authentic student voice and meaningful participation in decision-making. However, there are also promising signs of individual and collective initiative in creating new opportunities in the absence of conventional career openings.