Professional Opportunities and Challenges of Journalism Graduates: A Mixed-Methods Study of Recent Graduates from Kabul University

Abstract

This study examines the professional opportunities and challenges facing journalism graduates in Afghanistan, focusing on graduates of the Department of Journalism at Kabul University in 1403 and 1404. The study addresses the difficulties many graduates face in entering the job market and the gap between academic training and the media industry's practical demands. Given the changing media landscape, understanding the factors that shape graduates' employment and professional prospects is particularly important. The study therefore explored key professional challenges and opportunities and examined the role of practical skills in employment. The study used an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design. The study collected quantitative data from 70 graduates through a researcher-developed questionnaire, followed by semi-structured interviews with nine participants. The findings showed that 50.85% of respondents were unemployed. Major challenges included limited job opportunities, lack of job security, and insufficient practical skills. Reporting, content production, and technical media skills were also significantly associated with employment status. Qualitative findings highlighted the gap between academic training and labor market needs, the growing importance of digital and multimedia skills, and the role of online media in creating new opportunities. Overall, the study highlights the need to revise the curriculum, strengthen practical training and internships, and enhance collaboration between universities and media organizations.