Implications of Academic Knowledge on Career Performance of Cameroon University Graduates in Buea Sub-Division, South West Region

Abstract

Graduates’ performances are often associated with the acquired academic knowledge, skills, values, attitudes, and habits. Scholars have theorized extensively on the correlation between academic knowledge and career development in several parts of the world. However, context specific studies that establish the relationship between academic knowledge and career development remain scanty in Cameroon. This study therefore bridges this gap by investigating the influence of academic knowledge on the careers of university graduates in Buea sub-division, South West Region of Cameroon. The objectives of this study aimed to assess (a) the implications of academic  knowledge on the career of university graduates (b)Examine the determinants of career choices of university graduates (c) Examine the extent to which graduates were satisfied with their jobs The study utilized the survey and a sample of 286 graduates was purposively selected from three sectors of the economy (Educational, Commercial and Agricultural sectors). Data from questionnaires were complemented with information obtained from interviews for deeper exploration. Data were analyzed using SPSS and the results were presented in tables, bar charts and pie charts. Cramer V test was used to test the strength of the association between academic knowledge and career choices with value V=0.321; P=0.000.  The findings revealed  the following: A weak correlation (value) between academic knowledge and career choices as the value depended on the sector of the economy involved (b) the main determinants of career choices are peers, and graduates were generally not satisfied with their jobs. The study recommends the following: Career orientation services be made available and obligatory for pre university student with emphasis on program relevance to the job market, the university curriculum be professionalized such that students are provided with skills that are relevant in the job market.