Addressing digital transformation in a fast-moving digital economy is a premier challenge. Job availability will increase but employees will require different skills. Universities and businesses have to work hand in hand so that graduates can be prepared for future jobs that are available in the market. The job market demands today differs drastically from before. Most large companies are not only hiring fewer fresh graduates they expect them to have the relevant experience onset. In addition, some companies are unwilling to provide on job training for graduates.
What does this mean for universities?
Universities will not only have to equip graduates with the necessary communication and technology skills required to rectify complex issues; but also, to prepare them with the relevant entrepreneurial knowledge needed to plan and operationalise the small businesses that drive economic growth. However, to achieve this, universities will need to tap on to their research knowledge to revise both the curriculum and the way it is executed.
International labour market data and analysis provide clear notion of trends in skills and job requirements. This information coupled with the knowledge acquired through universities’ collaboration with employers and research partners, furnish both parties with an in depth understanding of required technologies in each field.
In addition, universities will have to help Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to tap on to graduates to develop business productivity and competitiveness. Universities also do not have the capacity to create advanced manufacturing facilities for students training purposes. Therefore, key multinational organisations will have to provide support by furnishing institutions with advanced technologies required to prepare graduates with the relevant skills and experience.
The primary element is to ensure sustainable collaboration between employers and universities and to keep an eye on the paradigm shift in the business environment. Only by doing so can organisations make use of graduates who have the skills and capabilities to help achieve their desired objectives and progress.
Source: Swinburne
Participate in the upcoming QS WorldClass 2018 from 16-18 April 2018.
This is an event organised exclusively for senior higher education leaders and key industry partners. Interested in making a change to the higher education world? Come join us in Abu Dhabi as we discuss on the “Changes in University/Industry Interaction”.