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VOL. 7, ISSUE 2 (2025)
Bridging the gap between higher education and employment
Authors
Parmanand Chauhan
Abstract
The transition from higher education to
meaningful employment has emerged as a critical issue in the 21st century.
While universities and colleges primarily focus on academic knowledge,
employers increasingly expect graduates to demonstrate job-ready skills such as
communication, problem-solving, digital literacy, adaptability, and teamwork.
This mismatch often leads to underemployment, skill gaps, and reduced workforce
productivity, particularly in developing regions. This study examines the
challenges and opportunities in bridging the gap between higher education and
employment, with a focus on employability skill development and the alignment
of academic curricula with industry requirements. A mixed-method research
design was employed, combining quantitative surveys of final-year students and
qualitative insights from faculty and employers. The findings reveal that
although graduates possess strong theoretical foundations, deficiencies in
practical exposure, digital competence, and soft skills remain significant
barriers to workforce readiness. Furthermore, limited industry-academia
collaboration and inadequate career guidance services were identified as
systemic challenges. The study recommends integrating employability skill
modules into higher education curricula, institutionalizing internships,
establishing career counseling cells, and strengthening partnerships between
academia and industry. By implementing these measures, higher education
institutions can better prepare graduates for dynamic labor market demands,
thereby enhancing both individual career prospects and national economic
growth.
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Pages:81-84
How to cite this article:
Parmanand Chauhan "Bridging the gap between higher education and employment". International Journal of Management and Economics, Vol 7, Issue 2, 2025, Pages 81-84
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