- Mandatory internships does help graduates with their lack of work experience.
- Collab with institutions, sectors &, governments may improve student employment practices
In today’s job market, many local graduates face difficulties transitioning from undergraduate to respectable job. Despite their credentials, a significant portion practice unemployment or underemployment.  ,
Let’s examine these varied concerns and possible solutions.
1. Why do regional graduates have trouble locating positions that match their skills?
A significant factor is the persistent problem of knowledge incompatibility. Many graduates possess conceptual knowledge, but employers are looking for practical skills and work experience. Also, rapid technological advancements usually provide qualifications outdated, widening the space between schooling and industry needs.  ,
The issue is made worse by the lack of networking opportunities and poor job advice. Graduates struggle to find employment and successfully market themselves to employers without the help of professional networks or advice.
The absence of work experience among graduates could be addressed by compulsory internship or apprenticeship programs. Moreover, college programs may strike a balance between theoretical knowledge and practical experience to better prepare students for the workforce.
2. Over skills or under?
Some graduates have to choose between being overqualified or underqualified for the jobs that are available. Some have credentials beyond entry-level needs, while people lack the necessary skills to meet changing business demands.
Employers may turn away from candidates with high-quality backgrounds because they fear they may rapidly transcend positions or demand higher salaries. In contrast, applicants with poor qualifications struggle to find employment in a field with specialized skills and experience.
Therefore, it is crucial to get advice before enrolling in a course to ensure that skills are still important after graduation. Private interests alone may not maintain employability. Additionally, universities should work with industry standards to avoid skill mismatches, perhaps by involving business advisors in college boards.
3. If first-time work offers be accepted by graduates?
Accepting the initial work offer can provide quick relief from employment forces, but it’s a choice that warrants careful thought. Graduates must consider the long-term effects on their job prospects.
Related career objectives or hobbies may prevent people from getting along and limiting their potential improvement. Instead, graduates really analyze job offers based on alignment with their beliefs, development potential, and opportunities for skill development.
4. What is the longer- word impact on the economy?
Significant and long-lasting effects are being caused by the skills gap between graduates and labour market requirements for both cultures.
High levels of student unemployment or underemployment also prevent innovation and productivity growth, as well as causing talent wastage. Underutilization or a lack of important skills in the workforce is hinder economic growth potential and impede competitiveness.  ,
However, while the job economy offers tempting employment alternatives with pliable working conditions, it may unwittingly undermine traditional employment opportunities, affecting graduates ‘ long- term employability.
5. What does universities do to maintain greater employment?
To increase student employability, universities must prioritize both intellectual knowledge and practical skills. Working with industry partners may incorporate real-world experiences into the curriculum to ensure graduates are well-equipped for the labor.
Additionally, colleges should exercise greater prudence and forethought when preparing and planning their program offerings. Instead of just providing popular programs and training, they should also provide programs that have long-term advantages for both the students ‘ employment and society. This prevents an oversupply of alumni in some professions.
Also, universities should also participate in extensive career development services that provide students with guidance on job search strategies, begin writing, and interview preparation. Internship programmes, industry placements, and cooperative education initiatives can also provide valuable hands- on experience and industry connections.
Comprehensive career development services are essential, offering guidance on job search strategies, resume writing, and interview preparation. Internship opportunities are provided by cooperative education initiatives and internship programs, as well as industry placements and partnerships with NGOs like Pikom.
6. What is available to the government?
Governments can help address the difficulties faced by graduates who are employable. The gap between education and employment can be bridged by policy initiatives like incentives for industries to offer apprenticeships and vocational training programs. Graduates are taught relevant skills by investments in technology and emerging industries.
To provide graduates with alternative employment options, governments can also promote entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystems. Entrepreneurial initiatives like startup incubators, access to venture capital, and business support services can help graduates pursue entrepreneurial endeavors and aid in economic growth.
7. What are the potential uses for NGOs like Pikom?
By providing specific assistance and resources to increase graduate employability, NGOs like Pikom can complement government efforts. This includes skills development workshops, mentorship programmes, and job placement services tailored to the needs of graduates. Collaborations with universities, industry partners, and government organizations can increase the impact of NGO initiatives and foster the dissemination of best practices and knowledge.
8. Is graduates ‘ ( perceived low salary ) starting salary a deterrent to employability?
Graduates ‘ starting pay may have an impact on their employability, but that’s just one factor. While competitive pay can attract candidates, other elements like job satisfaction, career growth, and work- life balance also matter.  ,
Employers should provide competitive salaries and other benefits, while graduates should take into account various factors when evaluating job offers.
9. What are some of the key elements that a graduate’s job offers?
- A higher starting salary can attract graduates, especially those motivated by financial incentives. Companies that offer competitive salaries find it simpler to find top talent, especially in high-demand occupations.
- The starting salary reflects the role’s perceived value and the candidate’s qualifications. Higher-paying positions are frequently seen by graduates as more prestigious or a sign of the employer’s commitment to their talent.
- For many graduates, getting a job with a competitive starting salary is essential to maintaining financial stability. Making the job more appealing, thanks to a higher starting salary, lessens worries about student loan debt and living expenses.
- According to research, employees who receive fair pay are more likely to be satisfied with their jobs and stay with their employers for the long run. Offering a competitive starting salary can increase retention rates and lower turnover costs, in turn.
In conclusion, addressing graduate employability challenges demands a collaborative effort among universities, governments, NGOs, and industry stakeholders. In order to promote entrepreneurship and innovation, aligning education with industry demands, and promoting robust career development support, can foster a more inclusive and resilient job market, enabling graduates to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the economy.
Woon Tai Hai is head of , PIKOM Research Committee. He is also a past Chairman of the organisation.