Published: 10:40 PM, 04 October 2026
Obsession for Government Jobs Leads Candidates to Unlawful Pursuits Sometimes
The growing obsession with government jobs among young people has become a serious social concern, as intense competition and limited employment opportunities sometimes push desperate candidates towards unlawful and unethical activities.
In many developing countries, a government job is regarded as a symbol of security, social respect and financial stability. The promise of a regular salary, pension and other benefits attracts thousands of graduates every year. As a result, candidates often spend years preparing for competitive examinations, while private-sector employment and entrepreneurship receive comparatively less attention.
The problem becomes more serious when the number of applicants greatly exceeds the number of available posts. Under tremendous pressure from families and society, some candidates begin to see a government position as their only path to a successful life. Repeated failures can create frustration, anxiety and hopelessness.
In extreme cases, this desperation may lead some individuals towards unlawful pursuits. Reports of candidates attempting to obtain leaked examination papers, use unfair means in examinations, forge certificates or pay middlemen for fraudulent promises of employment reveal the dangerous consequences of such obsession. Some dishonest agents also exploit unemployed youths by claiming that they can arrange government jobs in exchange for large sums of money.
However, the responsibility does not lie only with the candidates. The limited number of quality jobs, lengthy recruitment processes and lack of transparent information can increase frustration. At the same time, excessive social pressure and the belief that government employment is superior to all other careers contribute to the problem.
Experts believe that young people should be encouraged to explore diverse career options instead of concentrating exclusively on government employment. Technical education, entrepreneurship, freelancing and private-sector careers can also provide respectable and sustainable livelihoods. Families and educational institutions have an important role to play in helping young people understand that failure in a government examination does not mean failure in life.
Authorities should also ensure transparent recruitment, strengthen measures against examination fraud and take strict action against dishonest brokers. Recruitment procedures should be made faster and more accessible so that candidates do not remain uncertain for years.
A government job can certainly offer valuable opportunities, but it should not become an obsession that destroys honesty, dignity and peace of mind. Success has many paths, and young people must be encouraged to pursue them lawfully. A society that values talent, skill and hard work—not merely government positions—can create a healthier future for its youth.
Sarwar Chowdhury writes on
geopolitical standings and
contemporary matters.
