By Woon Tai Hai April 8, 2024Collab with universities, industries & governments can improve graduate employment practices
Limited networking opportunities and inadequate career guidance further compound the problem. Without professional networks or guidance, graduates struggle to navigate the job market and market themselves effectively to employers. Hence, it is important to seek guidance before pursuing a course is crucial to ensure skills remain relevant upon graduation. Personal interests alone may not guarantee employability. Furthermore, universities should align their curriculum with industry needs to prevent skill mismatches, possibly by involving industry advisors in university boards.Accepting the first job offer can offer immediate relief from unemployment pressures, but it's a decision that warrants careful consideration.
Furthermore, while the gig economy offers tempting employment alternatives with flexible working conditions, it may inadvertently undermine traditional employment opportunities, affecting graduates' long-term employability.Universities must prioritise practical skills and experiential learning and alongside academic knowledge to boost graduate employability.
Comprehensive career development services are essential, offering guidance on job search strategies, resume writing, and interview preparation. Internship programmes and cooperative education initiatives provide hands-on experience and industry placements, while collaborations with NGOs like Pikom can offer networking opportunities.Governments have a role to play in addressing the challenges of graduate employability.
The starting salary reflects the role's perceived value and the candidate's qualifications. Graduates often see higher-paying positions as more prestigious or indicative of the employer's commitment to their talent.