As a university student in Kenya, balancing academics, social life and financial responsibilities can be quite challenging.
Many students often find themselves struggling to make ends meet and are forced to rely on their parents or guardians for financial support.
However, with the rising cost of living, it has become imperative for students to seek alternative sources of income.
Part-time jobs are becoming increasingly popular among university students in Kenya as they offer a flexible way to earn money while still focusing on their studies.
This article will explore the various part-time job opportunities available for university students in Kenya and how they can benefit from them.
Here are some part time jobs university students in Kenya can engage in
YouTube
You can become a YouTube vlogger and earn cash based on the advertisements displayed on your videos. All you need to do is open a youtube channel and market it to get subscribers and followers.
Modelling
Modelling can be your part-time job. You can join a modelling agency and get paid whenever you go for a shoot.
Through modelling, you can also land lucrative deals like becoming a brand ambassador or even getting activation gigs.
Entrepreneurship
You can set up small businesses, the best-being agribusiness. You can earn a steady income from agribusiness.
You can grow vegetables or fruits then sell them to the nearest market or supply them to institutions like schools or hotels.
Tutor jobs
Part-time tutor jobs can also earn you income. You can provide tutoring services to other students based on your subject or area of specialisation. You can use interactive sessions, presentations or one to one classes.
Affiliate marketer
Affiliate marketers basically promote other businesses online and are paid whenever someone buys a product or service through the links they have promoted on their social media pages/websites. It’s easy, but it takes a while before you start making some good money.
Freelance writing
Freelancing is one of the most common part-time jobs that most students engage in. There are numerous online academic and article writing platforms where one can earn as little as Kshs. 200 per article.
Some of the best online writing platforms and accounts include; Upwork, Uvocorp, Iwriter, WriterBay, Quality writers, Essay Shark, Bluecorp, Academia Research, Asiawriters..e.t.c. You can also create a blog or website and start running payable ads.
Data entry jobs
Data entry basically entails copying data from written documents into a computer. You need to be computer literate, be a fast typer and have excellent written communication skills to do the data entry jobs.
You can get part-time data entry jobs in private organisations/companies, institutions, hospitals and parastatals or online sites such as Fiverr.
Online surveys
You can do online surveys and research jobs for various research companies on a part-time basis. It basically entails collecting data, carrying out experiments and analyzing the data collected.
There are various online survey sites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie and Mobrog that pay in terms of points which you can redeem as cash or gifts.
Here some reasons why some people might argue that students should engage in part-time jobs:
Financial independence
Working part-time allows students to earn their own money and reduces dependence on their parents or family for financial support.
Professional experience
Part-time jobs provide an opportunity to gain professional experience and build skills that will be useful in future careers.
Time management
Balancing work and study commitments teaches students valuable time management skills, which are essential for academic success.
Networking
Part-time jobs can offer networking opportunities that may lead to future employment or career opportunities.
Improved communication skills
Working with customers and colleagues can improve communication skills, which is important in both personal and professional relationships.
Enhance resume
Part-time jobs can enhance a student’s resume by adding relevant work experience and demonstrating responsibility and work ethic.
Personal development
Working part-time helps develop personal qualities such as confidence, independence, and responsibility.
Reduced debt
Earning money through part-time work can help students reduce their student loan debt or avoid accumulating it in the first place.
Exposure to different career paths
Part-time jobs offer exposure to various industries, which can help students identify their interests and choose a career path.
Work-life balance
Working part-time provides a balance between work and life, allowing students to pursue other interests and hobbies.