Generate more jobs

NEW graduates are potential additions to the labor force. But really, how many college graduates would land jobs?

Some may be lucky to find work in line with their college degrees (the employed). Others may likely take whatever work is available even if these are unrelated to their college degrees (the underemployed). Others may not find work at all (unemployed).

Every year, the country produces an estimated half a million college graduates. They add to the job hunters whose number grows annually.

By all indications, this year’s new graduates face an uncertain future. Many of them will join the ranks of the country’s unemployed or jobless college degree holders and will be joining several millions more jobless Filipinos. Unfortunately, the national economy is unable to generate sufficient and decent jobs – making the efforts of families to invest in their children’s education not a guarantee that they will be lifted from poverty.

The employment of last resort for most graduates who would want to earn a decent income seems to be the booming call center business. But the work is hard and stressful because of the late night work hours and the many not-so-pleasing encounters with clients. Thus, the turnover of employees in the business process outsourcing industry is high. Nevertheless, graduates with good English proficiency can easily land a job in call centers. Some work in call centers to gain work experience.

The lack in work experience is an inherent disadvantage for fresh graduates. The challenge to the government is this: generate more jobs, especially for fresh graduates.

All told, employment opportunities are still limited and the competition for jobs is intensifying especially for the hundreds of thousands graduating every year. And as the numbers of those unable to find work pile up, the more difficult it becomes for future graduates to find work.