ENHANCING ORIENTATION AND SENSITISATION FOR INFORMED CAREER CHOICES FOR CAMEROONIAN UNIVERSITY STUDENTS.

Purpose: this study examines the escalating issue of graduate unemployment and underrepresentation in certain academic programmes in Cameroon. It aims to evaluate the effectiveness of orientation and sensitisation programmes at Cameroonian universities and their impact on students’ career development and choices. Design/methodology/approach: using a descriptive survey methodology, the study engaged 200 students across various universities and disciplines in Cameroon. The research employed both online and in-person questionnaires, with data analysis combining descriptive statistics, correlation analysis and ANOVA to assess perspectives across institutions. Findings: the results highlight a significant lack of adequate career orientation and sensitisation among students, revealing disparities in the quality of orientation and the need for improved career guidance strategies. Research limitations/implications: while the study offers valuable insights, it acknowledges the limitations of its focus on specific universities and survey-based data collection. It suggests further research into the barriers to effective guidance and the long-term impact of orientation programmes. Practical implications: the study underscores the need for universities to enhance orientation programmes involving expert collaboration and online platforms to ensure students make informed career decisions. Social implications: addressing orientation disparities, particularly in rural areas, is critical for equitable access to career guidance, which has implications for social equality and quality of life improvements. Originality/value: this paper contributes new insights into the impact of orientation and sensitisation on students’ career choices within the Cameroonian context, offering a foundation for future policy and educational practice enhancements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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