Skills Mismatch of University Graduates with the Job Market Requirements

This study examines the extent of skill mismatch among university graduates and the job market’s requirements, using Jashore University of Science and Technology (JUST) as a representative case. Primarily, its objectives are to identify the general skills that employers expect from graduate recruits, to determine the skills that JUST graduates display in their professions, and to assess the gap between the skills they acquire and those required. Following a mixed-methods design, data were collected through questionnaires that included both closed- and open-ended questions from graduates seeking jobs, those currently employed, and employers or recruiters. The findings reveal that recruiters and employers emphasize communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, collaborative work, decision-making, and research capacity as some of the most important graduate skills. The study reports a noticeable gap in fundamental, social, and thinking skills acquired by the graduates and required in the profession, leading to underemployment. The skills for which a very high mismatch has been observed include comprehensively understanding new issues, critically analyzing abstract and complex ideas systematically, resolving complex and emerging problems using practical and technical skills, communicating ideas clearly, and communicating effectively. It also underscores the need for an updated curriculum, enhanced collaboration between industry and academia, and hands-on and practice-oriented teaching and learning strategies to improve the quality of graduates. The study draws attention to policymakers, educators, and employers to consider these valuable insights in order to minimize the skills gap and enhance graduate attributes, thereby increasing employability in evolving job markets, both domestically and internationally.