What does "not least among" mean in this sentence?
"Unfortunately, there is now much doubt about the value of the degree- not least among MBA graduates themselves, suffering as they are from the effects of recession and facing the prospect of shrinking management structures."

It is hard for me to understand this sentence. Is it saying that MBA graduates have much doubt about the value of the degree? Who is "suffering" and "facing...."?

Question

What does "not least among" mean in this sentence?
"Unfortunately, there is now much doubt about the value of the degree- not least among MBA graduates themselves, suffering as they are from the effects of recession and facing the prospect of shrinking management structures."

It is hard for me to understand this sentence. Is it saying that MBA graduates have much doubt about the value of the degree? Who is "suffering" and "facing...."?

Answer

MBA graduates are a large number (not least) of the people who are doubting the value of the MBA degree. Yes, MBA graduates are suffering the effects of the recession and facing the prospect of shrinking management structures
.

Answer

Very good. Because the recession hurt the economy, there are less jobs. The MBA graduates may not find good jobs after graduation. They may have borrowed money for their education that will now be difficult to repay.  This mean that the recession has "adversely affected" (hurt) their chances for getting goods jobs. When the management structure is smaller, there are fewer jobs.