International Journal of Literacy and Education

East African universities face a significant challenge regarding graduate unemployment. Although there has been a rapid increase in university enrollment over the past decade, the number of unemployed graduates has remained high. Despite efforts to create jobs in the formal sector, graduate unemployment persists due to the fact that many graduates lack the skills and experience required by employers in a rapidly changing global economy. As a result, the need for Career Development Centers (CDCs) that can help to bridge the gap between the academic preparation of students and the requirements of the labor market has become urgent. This article examines the role that CDCs play in enabling East African universities to compete successfully on a global level through employability and reputation. Based on a qualitative research methodology using journal articles, conference papers, university reports, and government education policies, this article analyzes the paths that CDCs take to improve employability, institutional reputation, and global rankings. Findings show that CDCs serve as a mechanism of institutional transformation, linking academic preparation to experiential learning, industry partnerships, and graduate tracking. Through the incorporation of career readiness in the academic culture of universities, universities not only increase the employability of their graduates but also enhance their standing on the most important global ranking indicators. Therefore, this article recommends specific actions that policymakers can take to promote institutional investment, regional cooperation, and outcomes-based evaluation systems.