Title: Top Qualifications Employers Seek in Kenya
One of the prevailing beliefs among job seekers in Kenya is the scarcity of job opportunities due to slow economic growth. However, a recent revelation sheds light on a different issue – the unfulfilled vacancies resulting from the mismatch between job seekers’ skills and the requirements of employers.
Statistics from the 2019 national census and a 2023 poll conducted among adults in Kenya revealed a significant gap in educational qualifications among the workforce. Only a small percentage of Kenyans have qualifications beyond secondary school, with even fewer possessing tertiary or university degrees.
This disparity in skills and qualifications has led to a situation known as ‘skills shortage,’ where employers struggle to find suitable candidates for available positions. Despite the high unemployment rate, employers are facing challenges in filling job vacancies due to the lack of qualified workers.
According to the Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE), the rapid adoption of new technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning has further intensified the skills gap in the labor market. Employers are seeking candidates with expertise in information technology, business management, engineering, transport/logistics, and law, which often require higher education qualifications.
In a recent report, FKE identified ICT jobs as the most affected by the skills shortage, highlighting the growing demand for professionals skilled in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cloud computing. The Ministry of Labour also highlighted the fastest-growing occupations in Kenya, including protective services, teaching, accounting, nursing, and business services.
Apart from technical qualifications, employers are placing a premium on social skills such as effective communication, critical thinking, collaboration, time management, creativity, problem-solving, and conflict resolution. These interpersonal skills are crucial for fostering a harmonious work environment and driving success in the workplace.
The current job market in Kenya presents a challenge for job seekers, particularly the youth, who face limited opportunities without the required academic qualifications. With over two-thirds of formal sector jobs requiring tertiary or university education, many Kenyans may struggle to secure employment unless they acquire the necessary qualifications demanded by employers.
To address the skills gap and meet the evolving demands of the labor market, career counsellors and educational institutions need to align their programs with the needs of employers. By equipping job seekers with the right qualifications and skills, Kenya can bridge the gap between supply and demand in the job market and create more opportunities for its workforce.
