Mauritanian graduates seek work abroad Nouakchott – Mohammed Shina University graduates in Mauritania are finding it increasingly difficult to find a job, with many considering leaving the country to seek employment.
Sayed Ahmed Ould Sayed al-Amin told Arab Today, “I have a Master’s Degree from a European University, and have tried all ways to find a job in the public and private sectors.  There is nothing but frustration and daily struggle in Mauritania. I feel education is no longer valuable in the country. My certificate and my studying are useless.”
Annually, thousands graduate from the University of Nouakchott, and other universities. Most of them major in humanities, literature, law and translation, while a small number specialise in mathematics, medicine and engineering.
Despite boasting rich industries in fishing, mining, agriculture and oil; the country has failed to create attractive jobs for young adults fresh out of universities.
According to government statistics, youths make up around 70 percent of the population, of which half are struggling to find employment.  Many are forced to accept jobs which are not relevant to their studies.
The figures showed that around 30 percent of Mauritania’s total population was out of work.  Unemployment in urban areas was at four percent while in rural areas this was at 16 percent.
Around 63 percent of men were unemployed, compared to 31 percent of women.