One in three graduates remains jobless for up to 2yrs
News September 29, 2025

One in three graduates remains jobless for up to 2yrs

One in three university graduates remained unemployed for up to two years while looking for work last year. Of them, one in seven had been without work for between one and two years.

**One in three graduates remains jobless for up to 2yrs**

A concerning new report has revealed a significant challenge facing recent university graduates: a large proportion are struggling to find employment after completing their studies. According to the findings, a staggering one in three graduates found themselves unemployed for up to two years while actively seeking work in the past year. This paints a worrying picture of the current job market and the difficulties faced by young people entering the workforce.

The report delves deeper into the duration of unemployment, highlighting that a considerable number of graduates face prolonged periods of joblessness. Of those who experienced unemployment, one in seven remained without work for an extended period, ranging from one to two years. This suggests that simply having a university degree is no longer a guarantee of swift entry into the professional world. These graduates are not just experiencing short-term setbacks; they are facing a significant hurdle in launching their careers.

The reasons behind this high rate of graduate unemployment are complex and likely multifaceted. Potential contributing factors include increased competition for entry-level positions, a mismatch between the skills taught in universities and the skills demanded by employers, and the overall economic climate. Some industries may be experiencing slower growth, limiting the number of available jobs for new graduates. Furthermore, the increasing prevalence of unpaid internships and the need for graduates to gain practical experience before securing full-time employment could also be playing a role.

The implications of prolonged graduate unemployment are far-reaching. Beyond the immediate financial strain on individuals and their families, extended periods of joblessness can negatively impact a graduate's confidence, mental health, and long-term career prospects. It can also lead to a loss of valuable skills and a widening gap between their academic knowledge and the practical demands of the workplace.

The findings of this report underscore the urgent need for a collaborative effort involving universities, employers, and government agencies to address the issue of graduate unemployment. Strategies such as strengthening career counseling services in universities, fostering closer partnerships between academic institutions and industries to ensure curriculum relevance, and implementing policies that encourage the hiring of recent graduates could all contribute to improving the employment prospects for young people entering the workforce.
Category: Business