Role of HR Leaders in bridging the gap in institutions and corporates | Vandana Singh Sridhar | Founding Team Member & Head – HR, Strategy & Operations Practise | Scrabble

India stands at a pivotal juncture today! The growing youth population has confronted India with newfound opportunities and challenges. Today, more than 50% of India’s population is under the age of 25 and a 65% of India’s population is under 35. Thus, this gives India a strategic vantage point to harness the true potential of a young demographic. However, there is also a significant mismatch between educational outcomes and industrial requirements from the young guns of India.

The burgeoning divide
The proof is in the pudding; as per the Economic Survey of 2024-25, only 8.25% of graduates are employed in roles best matching their educational qualifications. Besides, 50% of graduates and 44% postgraduate students are underemployed, engaged in employment avenues that don’t fully leverage their academic training. And while this may lead to unrest and job dissatisfaction, the businesses are also reeling as the young graduates are not exactly employment-ready!

As per Chartered Management Institute (CMI), as many as 80% of the employees entering the workforce lack the necessary skills they need for the job. Business leaders surveyed by Intelligent.com further echoes the same sentiment. As per the survey, 40% of employers expressed their concern that the young graduates are not prepared for today’s workplace. In fact, 88% of business leaders believe that graduates of the last three years are significantly less prepared than their predecessors.

And that hardly comes as a surprise when merely 4.9% of youth aged between 15-29 received vocational or technical training, thus leading to a significant skill deficit. At the heart, these figures reveal more than what meets the eye. It reveals how the modern day education systems are failing the students in making them completely job-ready for today’s market.

Reasons for the Divide
There could be several reasons leading to this chasm between academic achievements and employability. Many believe that having a theoretical curriculum causes this rift, as more educational institutions emphasize rote learning over practical application, leaving students ill-equipped for real-world challenges. Furthermore, students often lack industry exposure, often graduating without any hands-on experience of a nuanced understanding of navigating workplace dynamics.

This is in striking contrast to the rapid technological advancements of today. The fast-paced evolution of technology, the advent of emerging technologies like AI, Gen AI, Cybersecurity, and rampant digitalisations pose greater challenges for the curricula to stay updated, leading to outdated skill sets. And besides, a lot of students lack career guidance, unable to access mentorship or career counselling, thus resulting in less than optimal choices.

Bridging the Gap – How to create integrated pathways!

As the challenges are multifaceted, it requires a multifaceted approach to build integrated pathways for the bright futures of young graduates.

Solution 1: The integration of mainstream education with vocational training
As per the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, mainstream schooling was to be integrated with vocational education. With the introduction of skill-based courses from an early stage, students gets exposure into developing practical competencies, in addition to academic knowledge.

Solution 2: Promoting Apprenticeships
Seeking apprenticeships in the Olden Days was a sure shot way for a pupil to gain worldly wisdom and skill. Today, the same has been replaced by degree apprenticeships, combining academic study with practical work experience.

This model allows students to earn while they learn, gaining industry-relevant skills and reducing the gap between education and employment. Countries like the UK have successfully implemented such programs, and India can adapt this model to its context.

Solution 3: Deepening ties between Industry & Academia
Frequent interactions between educational institutions and industry leaders ensure that the curriculum and teaching practises remain updated and relevant. These associations can also lead to internships, workshops, and guest lectures, offering rich industry exposure to students.

Solution 4: Creating Centres for Career Counselling
Setting up dedicated career counselling centres to guide students in making informed decisions about their career paths, understanding industry demands, and identifying necessary skill sets.

Solution 5. Encourage Lifelong Learning and Upskilling
In a rapidly changing job market, continuous learning is essential. Offering short-term courses, certifications, and online learning platforms can help individuals upskill and stay relevant.

Solution 6: Utilize Technology for Skill Development
Leveraging technology can democratize access to quality education and training. Online platforms can offer courses in emerging fields, simulations, and virtual labs, making learning more accessible and interactive.

Conclusion
It’s imperative for India’s socio-economic stability and development to bridge the gap between education and employability. This requires a reimagination of education, to include more pragmatic skills and real-world exposure, especially from any early stage.

Furthermore, by fostering industry-academia collaboration and promoting continuous, lifelong learning, shall equip the youth with skills and attitude necessary to meet the demands of present day workforce. More than being job-ready, this will ensure that future students are more nurturing and adaptable to an ever-changing job market and life!