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Strategies to enhance graduate employability: insight from Malaysian public university policy-makers
Marfunizah Ma’dan1, Muhamad Takiyuddin Ismail2, Sity Daud3.
Purpose - The purpose of this study is to explore the focus and
strategies used by public universities in Malaysia, for enhancing
their graduates’ competency level as well as suggesting ways to
reduce unemployment among university graduates. This study aims
to identify the focus and strategies of public universities to enhance
graduates’ competency level, as well as their key challenges.
Methodology - The study used an exploratory research approach
by applying a qualitative method. Data were collected through faceto-face interviews with expert informants such as a deputy vice
chancellor of academic affairs, directors of graduate employability,
and representatives from the alumni centre of eight selected public
universities in Malaysia. Data from information provided by
informants were analysed using content analysis. Findings - The results show detailed explanations and practical
roles of Malaysian public universities in enhancing graduates’
competency level and subsequently securing their employability by
meeting market demands. However, this paper argues for stronger
changes and reforms at the institutional level to support the degree
of competency among graduates, such as improving teaching
methods and programmes offered. Furthermore, university–industry
collaboration also needs to be strengthened to develop a competitive
and capable talent in the country.
Significance - The paper extends the strategies and focuses that have
been implemented by public universities by providing more detailed
and practical solutions to ensure that curriculum designs are more
effective in supporting the development of graduate competency.
Study findings are useful for improving universities’ strategies
and implementation, to pursue a balanced quality of education in
developing future talent.
Affiliation:
- Universiti Utara Malaysia, Kedah, Malaysia
- Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia
- Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia
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Indexation |
Indexed by |
MyJurnal (2021) |
H-Index
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3 |
Immediacy Index
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0.000 |
Rank |
0 |
Indexed by |
Scopus 2020 |
Impact Factor
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CiteScore (2) |
Rank |
Q1 (Cultural Studies) Q2 (Education) Q3¬¬¬ (Psychology (all)) |
Additional Information |
SJR (0.385) |
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