Congratulations to all graduates but...

I congratulate all graduates of 2015. Indeed, the greatest day in the life of any student is always the day when, after many years of sacrifice, toil and commitment, they are given powers to read, write and do all that appertains to their various degrees.

Graduation day is usually marked with joy and excitement.

However, reality starts dawning thereafter. Heavy expectations from society begin to take a toll on their lives as they face the limited job market.

My advice to all the graduates is simple. Be open-minded and ready to stretch your flexibility and skills beyond imaginable limits for the road ahead is tough, rough and bumpy. Only the most resilient, patient, tough and smart graduates will navigate through it. Prepare yourself both physically and psychologically to remain on the job-hunting road for several years. In fact, human resource experts estimate that it takes an average Kenyan job seeker up to five years to land the job of their dreams.

During this time, you are most likely going to experience challenges and frustrations such as lack of experience and empty job promises. And for those who might be lucky to secure jobs early, the road will not be smooth. Hurdles such as lack of experience, discrimination from senior employees and exploitation are going to be part and parcel of your life for quite some time.

As I welcome all graduates to join us in nation building, I want to take this opportunity to urge all of us responsible – the citizenry, Government and the private sector – to create a conducive environment that will provide fair, equal and adequate opportunities to all.