Paradox of learning: How Indian higher education institutions produce unemployable graduates

The India Skills Report 2024 has highlighted a concerning trend in the country's higher education sector, revealing that only 51.25% of final-year students and postgraduates are deemed employable. This statistic sheds light on a growing paradox within Indian institutions, where academic qualifications do not necessarily translate into job readiness. The report underscores the urgent need for educational reforms that align curricula with industry requirements to better prepare students for the workforce. This gap between education and employment is further exacerbated by rapidly evolving job markets, which demand skills that are often not part of traditional academic syllabi. Employers are increasingly seeking candidates with practical experience and specific competencies, such as critical thinking and problem-solving, which many graduates lack. As a result, companies are investing more resources in training new hires, which could otherwise be spent on innovation and growth. Addressing this paradox requires a multi-faceted approach involving collaboration between educational institutions, industry leaders, and policymakers. By integrating internships, vocational training, and updated coursework into the fabric of higher education, India can enhance graduate employability and meet the demands of a dynamic global economy. Such initiatives are crucial for transforming the potential of India's young population into tangible economic progress.

— Authored by Next24 Live