Why skills matter for graduate employability

Graduate employability is more than just earning a degree; it’s about integrating skills and knowledge to build a successful career. While education provides a strong foundation, practical skills bridge the gap between learning and the workplace.

The ongoing debate between skills and degrees often overlooks their interconnected role in shaping career success. Instead of viewing them separately, education must integrate skill development to create job-ready graduates.

How can we ensure that students are equipped with the skills employers seek? Let’s explore the key to bridging this gap!

Balancing knowledge and practical Skills for career success

Academia traditionally emphasizes knowledge, concepts, theories, and principles; while employers seek professionals who can apply this knowledge in real-world settings. Both technical and soft skills, such as critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, are essential in bridging this gap.

A well-rounded graduate is not just someone who understands theories but someone who can implement them effectively. This shift is evident in the growing emphasis on experiential learning, internships, and hands-on projects in modern education.

A significant skills mismatch has left many graduates underemployed, with only 8.25% securing jobs that align with their qualifications. The Economic Survey 2024-25 highlights gaps in skill supply and demand, underscoring the need for curriculum reforms and stronger industry collaboration. Click here to read more….

NEP 2020: A holistic approach to skill-based education

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 recognizes the need to integrate skills with academic learning. By promoting a multidisciplinary approach, NEP 2020 ensures students develop both cognitive and practical competencies. Key initiatives include:

• Vocational education integration: Introducing skill-based learning from an early stage to complement theoretical studies
• Multiple entry and exit options: Enabling students to gain industry-relevant skills alongside traditional degrees
• Internships and apprenticeships: Encouraging work-based learning for hands-on industry exposure
• Credit-based learning: Recognizing skills acquired through non-traditional pathways, making education more flexible and inclusive

These initiatives aim to produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also industry-ready.

Key strategies for enhancing graduate employability

For effective implementation, collaboration between academic institutions, industries, and policymakers is essential. Actionable steps include:

• Revamping curriculum: Integrating skill-based courses with traditional academic programs
• Industry vollaboration: Strengthening ties between academia and industry to provide students with real-world insights and training
• Skill assessments: Regular evaluations of both knowledge and skills to develop well-rounded professionals
• Lifelong learning: Encouraging continuous upskilling to meet evolving job market demands

Building graduate employability requires more than just degrees—it’s about the right mix of skills and knowledge. While education lays the foundation, practical skills bridge the gap between learning and the workplace. The debate between skills vs. degrees often overlooks their interconnected role in career success. Rather than seeing them as separate, education must prioritize skill integration to create job-ready graduates.

With policies like NEP 2020 paving the way, students, educators, and employers must collaborate to ensure graduates are not only informed but also empowered to excel in their careers.